117 drug hotspots identified in Khulna

Drug trafficking and sales are spreading across Khulna city, with 117 hotspots identified across its 44-square-kilometre area, according to a report sent to the Prime Minister’s Office.

Speaking to The New Nation, Deputy Director of the Divisional Intelligence Office of the Directorate of Narcotics Control (DNC), Khulna, SK Ifhtekhar Mohammad Umayer said, “We regularly update the list of drug dealers, and the updated list is sent to the headquarters on a quarterly basis.”He added that special anti-drug operations are ongoing.

When contacted, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Khulna Metropolitan Police (ADC, North) Zakia Sultana told The New Nation that no programme had yet been announced regarding a special anti-drug campaign. However, regular operations by KMP are always ongoing, she added.

The city’s 31 wards have reportedly become active markets for drugs, particularly from evening until late at night. A total of 272 people have been identified as being involved in the illegal trade.