Yirol West bans sale and consumption of illicit drugs

The Commissioner of Yirol West County in Lakes State has banned the sale and consumption of illicit drugs, including crystal meth, tramadol, marijuana and shisha, to address rising drug abuse in Yirol town.

Commissioner Paul Chabiet Ayang announced the ban as part of efforts to tackle drug abuse and alcohol consumption, particularly among young people.

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.

Speaking to Eye Radio, Ayang said the decision followed concerns raised by health officials about the harmful effects of drug abuse.

He said the substances were also linked to violence, theft and public disorder in the town.

The commissioner said 36 young people had so far been arrested over alleged involvement in drug-related activities. Some of those arrested are reportedly below the age of 18.

He defended the detention of minors, saying the authorities were seeking to protect them from further harm.

Ayang also 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.