Madurai's city police commissioner, J. Longanathan, has urged pharmacists and courier service providers in the city to exercise caution in the supply of medications, highlighting the risk of misuse by drug addicts.

Commissioner Longanathan advised pharmacists and other drug suppliers not to provide medications to customers without a proper prescription. He also emphasized the importance of vigilance among courier service providers, encouraging them to inform the police if they encounter any suspicious parcels. "It is crucial for courier service providers to be cautious about the illegal drug trade, which can be prevented through the vigilance of courier networks," he said.

Mr. Longanathan mentioned ongoing efforts to combat drug abuse and misuse in schools and colleges through awareness drives. He also stressed the need for pharmacists to strictly require prescriptions, particularly for psychiatric and addictive drugs. Due to the restricted sale of ganja, many people are turning to narcotic drug tablets as an alternative. "CCTV cameras and proper records of drug sales should be ensured in all pharmacies," he added.

During an awareness meeting on drug abuse held on Thursday for pharmacy, courier, and parcel service operators, it was revealed that over 6,000 kg of ganja had been confiscated in the city over the past three years. Additionally, there have been 416 convictions related to ganja, and assets worth ₹1.41 crore belonging to the drug peddlers have been seized.

He warned that medical shops would face penalties if they were found in violation of regulations.

Assistant Director of Drug Control, A. D. Selvakumar, emphasized that medical shops have a significant social responsibility and should not succumb to the temptation of making quick profits by selling medicines to drug abusers.

The event also featured speeches from Deputy Commissioners of Police Garad Karun Uddhavarao, Madhu Kumari, and D. Kumar.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Ankur Deka/MSM)