The Karachi South police have introduced a new anti-drug policy in partnership with heads of schools, colleges, and universities to tackle the growing problem of drug use in educational institutions.
The initiative aims to create a safer, healthier, and drug-free environment for students across the city.
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South Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Asad Raza said the policy is a coordinated effort designed to protect students from substance abuse and ensure long-term preventive action.
“Recognizing the need for a coordinated, proactive and sustainable response, the police have adopted this comprehensive anti-drug policy to safeguard students from substance abuse and foster a safe, healthy and drug-free educational environment,” he said.
He added that the plan is based on prevention, early action, parental involvement, rehabilitation support, institutional responsibility, and lawful enforcement.
According to him, the main goal is to keep educational institutions free from drugs, protect students from exposure, and raise awareness about the harmful physical, psychological, and legal effects of drug use.
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DIG Raza further said that stronger cooperation between schools, parents, healthcare professionals, and law enforcement is essential for the success of the policy.
Under the plan, anti-drug committees will be formed in educational institutions.
These will include school or college heads, teachers, parents, and police representatives.
Regular awareness sessions, seminars, and educational campaigns will also be held to educate students about the dangers of drugs.
It has also been proposed that parents or guardians provide consent at the time of admission, allowing institutions to conduct lawful drug screening where necessary.
Educational institutions will also be required to report any suspicious activity and work closely with law enforcement agencies to prevent drug-related influence on students.
DIG Asad Raza said the policy reflects a shared responsibility between institutions, parents, and authorities to protect young people and promote a positive learning environment.
He also shared that a “Campus Security and Substance Abuse Watch” system has already been established, which includes female police officers to improve monitoring around educational areas.
According to official data, 20 out of 158 private schools, 8 out of 22 colleges, and 4 out of 9 universities in the district are currently under surveillance.
Senior police officials have been instructed to submit regular progress reports covering enforcement actions, inspections, awareness programs, and challenges faced in controlling drug activity.
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“The objective is not merely the enforcement of the law but the protection of future generations, the preservation of public health and the strengthening of societal values,” he said.
Officials added that a 50-member Campus Security and Substance Abuse Watch Force was already active, formed last year to curb drug-related issues in educational institutions across South Karachi.
Authorities said the focus of the policy is prevention, rehabilitation, and awareness rather than punishment, aiming to build a healthier and more responsible student community.
