DRUG TRADE IS SOCIETY'S PROBLEM

Children are always taught not to tattle-tale and it's wrong to get someone
into trouble. However, that's a concept that needs to be scrapped if
society is to get a handle on the drug problem.

A recent study shows that the number of marijuana grow operations in B.C.
is increasing at a rapid rate. Between 2000 and 2001, enforcement of drugs
skyrocketed a shocking 31 per cent in Vernon.

While obviously these illegal activities drain police resources, the
largest impact is on the lives touched by addiction. Sons, daughters,
fathers, mothers and friends are among the victims of traffickers, and the
changes they undergo affect loved ones. Frequently, these cases end in tragedy.

Beyond this, we should remember that much of the residential and business
crime is a result of people stealing to feed their habit. We're all touched
by drugs.

RCMP in the North Okanagan do a valiant job, but they can't be everywhere.
That's why it's crucial that people keep an eye out for suspicious
activity, whether on a street corner or at a neighbour's yard. The police
need extra eyes and ears to help them.

It may never be possible to win the war on drugs, but the community needs
to rally the troops and do what it can.