Mauritian New Drug Agency to Fight Synthetic Drugs in 4 Areas

Sam Lauthan, director of the National Agency for Drug Control, emphasized that fighting drug abuse requires society’s collective effort, not just government action. Speaking on June 26, during the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, he warned about the rising circulation of synthetic drugs and called for a focus on prevention, education, and community involvement.

He stated, “The key message is that prevention must become a national priority. Too often, we focus on repression and managing consequences, but we neglect to act early.

If we don’t change how we approach this issue as a society, drug problems will keep growing.

Drug abuse doesn’t discriminate by social, economic, or geographic boundaries—no one is immune.”

Lauthan pointed out that during the COVID-19 pandemic, increased isolation, stress, and economic hardship made people more vulnerable to drug use.

These same social vulnerabilities open doors for traffickers. He stressed that criminal networks will not stop—they adapt and find new ways to operate.

The best defense, he argues, is prevention at all levels: in schools, families, and neighborhoods.

Parents play a crucial role as first-line protectors, but they need support, training, and information.

He emphasized that the fight against drugs is a societal challenge, not something the government can handle alone.

“If we don’t act wisely and decisively, we risk losing an entire generation,” he warned.

Regarding current drug trends, Lauthan highlighted synthetic drugs as a major concern. These substances often contain dangerous, toxic mixtures, as noted in a recent report by the commission led by former judge Paul Lam Shang Leen.

He explained that the drugs consumed by youth are increasingly unrecognizable, often tampered with and unpredictable, leading to a slow form of self-destruction among young people.

The agency is working on restructuring itself into several divisions—covering trafficking, treatment, rehabilitation, and research—each with clear responsibilities.

A press conference will soon outline a comprehensive action plan, based on guidelines from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), tailored to local realities.

Lauthan also stressed the importance of community involvement, especially the role of youth and local groups.

Initiatives are being developed for young people and parents, involving NGOs, social workers, and cultural associations.

Neighborhood committees will also be established. He acknowledged that this is a long-term, challenging effort, but essential for meaningful and lasting change.

Source: Defi Media