Drug-related cases in Gelephu have declined significantly over the past few years. Police attribute it to stronger enforcement, awareness programmes, and the Gelephu Mindfulness City’s push for a drug-free society. The update came during the observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking held in Gelephu on Friday.
Speaking during the programme, Senior Superintendent of Police, Nima Tshering of Gelephu Police Station, said the observance is a reminder of collective responsibility in addressing drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
He said it serves to strengthen commitment towards building a safer and healthier society through awareness, prevention efforts, and shared responsibility in addressing drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
According to Gelephu Police, 183 drug-related cases, mostly substance abuse cases, were recorded in 2024, which dropped to 136 cases in 2025. As of June this year, only 39 cases have been recorded, indicating a continued downward trend.
The Governor of Gelephu Mindfulness City, Dr Lotay Tshering, also addressed the gathering, which included recovering individuals, youth participants, and community members. He said GMC is moving towards a zero-tolerance approach to drugs and announced that drug testing will be introduced for everyone, including students, teachers, and civil servants. He emphasised the shared responsibility of parents, teachers, and communities in preventing drug abuse and guiding young people towards positive choices.
GMC Governor Dr Lotay Tshering said, “The drug users are not born with addictive habits. When we are born to our mothers, we are all the same. As we go through life, I believe that different circumstances may lead a person to abuse drugs. That’s why, whether you are a parent today or will become one someday, parents should really question what went wrong if they have children who become involved in drugs. When there was an opportunity to correct the child, was enough done? Instead of focusing only on teaching textbooks, perhaps we should question whether we have failed to impart the life skills needed to cope with life.”
The programme also featured a cleaning campaign, followed by cultural performances and interactive talks focused on recovery, prevention, and hope. Recovering individuals shared experiences aimed at encouraging positive change and strengthening community support systems.
With declining cases and tighter measures under the GMC’s zero-tolerance approach, officials say sustained cooperation from all sectors will be key to building a safer, drug-free society.
Karma Wangdi/Passang Dorji, Gelephu
