DRUGS AT ROOT OF GANGS

Gang-related murders have prompted a reaction by authorities to hire
more police officers and increasing penalties for gang-related
crimes. One wonders if this would solve the problem. It could also
indicate that the problem is attacked at the wrong end.

We are told that criminal gangs deal with illegal drugs,
prostitution and money laundering of illegally obtained cash. Drugs
are apparently the most lucrative business.

Our neighbourhood pot dealer, who may also supply harder stuff, may
seem a harmless little cog in that big illegal industry, but he or
she is who makes it possible for the vicious wholesale gangs to
exist. This society is collectively guilty of using or tolerating
illegal drug use. Without the demand there would be no supply.

We have had public campaigns against smoking cigarettes and it has
declined significantly. Why do we do not have a public campaign
against drug use which is a much more harmful activity? Many
accidents and deaths are caused by mind-altering drugs, including alcohol.

Unless we get to the source of the gang problem, there will be always
some people who regardless of the increased penalties are willing to
profit from this addiction.

Kaljo Pohjakas