By BM Nur Alam

DHAKA, June 22, 2026 (BSS) - The government has significantly strengthened surveillance and intelligence activities along the country's borders, particularly in the Teknaf region and areas bordering Myanmar and India, to prevent the trafficking of narcotics and strengthen the nationwide anti-drug campaign.

Officials said a coordinated effort involving the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC), Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Coast Guard, Police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and intelligence agencies is underway to curb drug trafficking through enhanced monitoring, information sharing and joint operations.

Talking to BSS, DNC Director General Md Hasan Maruf described drug abuse as a multidimensional social and national security threat, stressing that the challenge cannot be addressed by law enforcement alone.

"Families, educational institutions, social organizations and the media must work together alongside law enforcement agencies to protect society from the devastating effects of drugs," he said.

The government is enforcing the Narcotics Control Act, 2018, under which offenders face various penalties, including imprisonment and fines depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved. 

Authorities are also working to amend and modernize the law to address emerging challenges in narcotics control.

Bangladesh continues to pursue a 'zero tolerance' policy against drugs, terrorism and online gambling.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has reaffirmed the government's commitment to combating drug trafficking and abuse, while Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed recently emphasized the importance of strict border monitoring to resist drug smuggling networks.

Alongside enforcement measures, the government is giving priority to treatment and rehabilitation for people suffering from drug addiction.

According to official data, four government-run and 386 licensed private rehabilitation centres are currently operating across the country, providing services such as detoxification, medical supervision, psychosocial counselling, group and family therapy, and social reintegration support.

Bangladesh will observe the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26.

The DNC is set to lead a series of awareness programmes highlighting the harmful consequences of drug abuse in line with global initiatives of the United Nations to promote a drug-free world.

Experts warned that drug abuse is inflicting serious social and economic damage on the country, with college and university students among the most vulnerable groups. They stressed that a comprehensive social movement and cooperation among government agencies, educational institutions, families and civil society are essential to tackle the growing drug menace.

Prof Dr Arup Ratan Choudhury, Founder President of MANAS, said protecting young people from addiction should be a national priority and suggested the formation of a dedicated force for drug control to improve enforcement effectiveness.

Meanwhile, Dhaka University Sociology Department Professor Salma Akhtar called for greater parental involvement and stronger community engagement to keep young people away from drugs.

She also urged legal action against drug syndicates, expansion of sports and cultural activities, and enhanced accountability among law enforcement personnel.