Yirol West County commissioner Paul Chabiet Ayang has banned the sale and consumption of illicit drugs, including marijuana, in Yirol town in Lakes State to address rising drug abuse.[1] Ayang announced the ban as part of efforts to tackle drug abuse and alcohol consumption, particularly among young people.[1] He said the decision followed concerns raised by health officials about the harmful effects of drug abuse.[1] He also linked the substances to violence, theft and public disorder in the town.[1]
On Thursday, Ayang led an operation to inspect shops and confiscate prohibited substances, including crystal methamphetamine locally known as ice, flash, tramadol, shisha and marijuana.[1] Ayang ruled out compensation for traders whose goods were confiscated and destroyed, saying the county government would not compensate anyone for selling substances considered harmful to the community.[1]
The commissioner said 36 young people had so far been arrested over alleged involvement in drug-related activities.[1] Some of those arrested are reportedly below the age of 18.[1] He defended the detention of minors, saying the authorities were seeking to protect them from further harm.[1]
