Punjab CNF Chief Warns Drug Abuse Poses Grave National Security Threat
Punjab Counter Narcotics Force (CNF) Director General Brigadier Mazhar Iqbal has issued a stark warning, declaring drug abuse a severe national security threat that is destroying lives and jeopardizing the country's future. Speaking at an awareness seminar titled "Youth against Drugs" held at the University of the Punjab, he emphasized the urgent need for collective societal action to eradicate this menace.
Seminar Highlights Youth Vulnerability and Collective Responsibility
The event, jointly organized by the university's Anti-Narcotics Committee, Directorate of Students Affairs, and the Punjab Counter Narcotics Force, took place at Al Raazi Hall. Brigadier Mazhar Iqbal stressed that anti-drug awareness messages must reach every segment of society, with a particular focus on the youth, who are most vulnerable to narcotics. He urged students to play a proactive role by reporting drug-related activities and spreading awareness within their communities.
"Drug addiction not only ruins individuals and families but also poses a serious threat to national stability and security," he added, highlighting the broader implications of the issue.
University Leadership Commits to Drug-Free Campus Initiatives
Earlier in the day, the DG Counter Narcotics Force met with Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali at his office. During the meeting, the vice chancellor underscored the necessity of sustained awareness campaigns to curb drug use among youth and reiterated the university's commitment to maintaining a drug-free campus. He appreciated the efforts of the Anti-Narcotics Committee and commended the organizers for arranging the seminar.
The event was attended by Pro Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood, Director Enforcement Colonel Furqan, Chairman PU Anti-Narcotics Committee and Dean Faculty of Quality & Industrial Systems Engineering Prof Dr Muhammad Shafiq, Director Students Affairs Dr Shahzeb Khan, Clinical Psychologist Dr Sadia Khan, faculty members, and a large number of students.
Call for Citizen Support in Anti-Narcotics Efforts
Speaking on the occasion, Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood noted that while institutions are making concerted efforts to eliminate the societal menace of drugs, it is equally the responsibility of citizens to support government initiatives and anti-narcotics agencies in their mission. This call to action reinforces the need for a unified approach in combating drug abuse.
Later, the vice chancellor presented a souvenir to Brigadier Mazhar Iqbal, symbolizing the collaborative spirit between educational institutions and law enforcement in addressing this critical issue. The seminar served as a platform to mobilize youth and stakeholders in the fight against narcotics, aiming to foster a safer and more secure future for Pakistan.
