Threat of drugs: Protecting our youth and seeking justice

Bangladesh faces a growing crisis as dangerous new drugs spread across the country. Beyond familiar substances like yaba or phensedyl, new synthetic drugs are appearing, often made to avoid legal rules.

The terrible cost of this trade was seen on Thursday afternoon, June 25, 2026, when violence struck Katabil in Cumilla. Just after a peaceful protest against drug selling, 12-year-old student Ethan Ahmed and four others were shot and injured. This shows how fearless and cruel these criminal groups have become.

Official data shows there are about 8.2 million drug users in the country, and 85% are young people aged 16 to 35. Use of these new drugs has risen by 37% in two years. Many young people become victims, or are forced to work for dealers.

We need true justice: strong punishment for traffickers, and support for those trapped in addiction. Borders must be better secured to stop illegal supplies entering. Most of all, we must protect our youth-teaching them the risks, and giving them hope and opportunity so they never fall into danger. Only by working together can we build a safer, fairer nation.

Sahan Ahmad
Training Affairs Secretary
Fight For Rights International
United Kingdom