NARCOTICS EXPERT CALLS FOR THE USE OF INTERNET AS SUPPRESSION TOOL

Claims Evils Of Drugs Can Be Spread Easily

The Internet may become a valuable anti-drug education tool in Asia as the
drug war goes to cyberspace, a senior US analyst said

Thomas Wersto said since drug users and producers make use of the Internet,
the authorities should also go on-line as it offers a chance to educate a
large number of people about the danger of drugs.

He expected that use of the Internet in the drug trade will continue to
grow, even if governments take pro-active measures.

Mr Wersto attended the "International Congress: In Pursuit of a Drug-free
Asean 2015" in Bangkok.

He said the Internet will offer Asian governments many chances.

It was a cheap and easy way to reach an extensive range of people.

This was particularly so as use of the Internet continued to expand in the
region.

The US was also witnessing countries such as Singapore and others using the
Internet as a drug education tool.

He accepted that using the Internet was a two-edged sword because it also
was used as a source of narcotics trade and industry by those involved in
the trade.

Asian governments should use this key to encourage greater public
participation to campaign against drug traffickers.

Government-operated websites could allow people the opportunity to
anonymously inform on local traffickers and producers as well as fugitive
drug suspects.

People who would be too scared to report to the police on activities of
drug traffickers in their neighbourhood have the opportunity to do so
anonymously and thus safely, he advised.

Mr Wersto hoped at least the Internet would create greater awareness of the
identities of wanted traffickers and suspects.

He commended Thai police for launching a website detailing the photos and
criminal data of 80 such individuals earlier this year.

It was a model of creativity and innovation, he said.