Barishal observed the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2026 on Friday with a rally, discussion meeting, and prize-giving ceremony aimed at raising public awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.
The programme was organized jointly by the Barishal District Administration and the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC). A colorful rally, led by Additional Divisional Commissioner Md. Ahsan Habib**, began from the Deputy Commissioner's Office and marched through the city.
A discussion meeting was later held at the conference room of the Deputy Commissioner's Office to mark the significance of the day.
Addressing the event as the chief guest, the Divisional Commissioner stressed that preventing drug abuse and illicit trafficking requires not only the efforts of law enforcement agencies but also the active participation of families, neighborhoods, and communities in building collective resistance against narcotics.
He urged citizens to play a responsible role by providing accurate information about drug dens and traffickers to the relevant authorities. He also emphasized the need to create widespread awareness about the harmful effects of drugs from the family level as well as in schools and colleges.
Speaking to parents, the Divisional Commissioner said many guardians focus solely on their children's academic success while neglecting their moral and social development. As a result, some students grow up lacking moral values and social awareness, making them more vulnerable to drug use due to curiosity, peer influence, or recreational experimentation, particularly when living away from their families for higher education.
The meeting was chaired by Deputy Commissioner Md. Khairul Alam Sumon. Superintendent of Police A.Z.M. Mostafizur Rahman and Paritosh Kumar Kundu, Additional Director of the Department of Narcotics Control, Barishal Division, attended as special guests.
Md. Tanvir Hossain Khan, Deputy Director of the Department of Narcotics Control, Barishal District Office, delivered the welcome address.
Officials from various government departments, representatives of non-governmental organizations, parents, students, and media personnel were also present at the event.
Following the discussion, prizes were distributed among the winners of essay writing and drawing competitions organized by the Department of Narcotics Control, Barishal District Office, to mark the occasion.
