DRUG PROBLEM

ROSELLE -- It was refreshing to read a perspective on Colombia written by a
Colombian ("The Colombian Nightmare," Perspective, July 16). Francisco
Santos makes many important points, but one of the most crucial is
mentioned only briefly.

"In the mid-1970s, when the Colombian government militarized the fight
against marijuana drug traffickers found a product more profitable and
easier to transport and distribute--coca," Santos wrote. This should be a
stark reminder that one consequence of trying to eradicate a particular
drug is the substitution of a more potent drug.

While I know it won't happen, let's imagine the military aid to Colombia
will end the cocaine trade. The makers, sellers and users who emerge from
the wreckage will simply switch over to methamphetamine, a stimulant that
has a longer effect, and is cheaper and easier to produce. And, when the
war against methamphetamine is escalated, something even more dangerous
will take its place.

Regardless of the destruction caused by the drug war, it will not end drug
problems. It can only make them worse.

Stephen Young