The fight against cocaine

TIMES INT'L

Dear Editor,
I am reading about some master plan to fight the trafficking of drugs in Guyana and I have a feeling that it will be most futile. This crossed my mind when I read the headline, “Rose Hall shop owner remanded for cocaine possession.” It appears that this shop owner is known for these kinds of practices.
Cocaine stimulates the cells of the central nervous and cardiovascular systems. The feeling of stimulation that comes from cocaine use is due to its activation of nerve cells in the brain that releases dopamine, a chemical associated with pleasure and a sense of alertness. Physical symptoms include an accelerated heart rate and breathing, and higher blood pressure and temperature.
The two most important factors in determining the effects of the drug are the amount taken and the method of ingestion.
Intravenous use ordinarily produces euphoria within 20-30 seconds, whereas snorting may take from three to five minutes. The effects of smoking cocaine or crack are almost immediate.
Why must known drug places be allowed to operate in peace? The common street selling price of cocaine hydrochloride powder is enough to make even a common peddler quite comfortable. Most of these sellers almost always dilute the drugs in order to multiply profits. In many countries, the UK for example, the penalty in drug cases is very severe. In the U.S., the war on drugs has failed to suppress illicit drug production or trafficking. The implementation of harsh drug laws has even led to human rights abuses, overcrowded prisons and threats to democratic institutions. Despite this, no nation must be sacrificed at the altar of drugs.
The details of this Rose Hall case show that the accused operates a shop at his residence, and that is where the cocaine was found. Apparently, the police were tipped off and they made the search. I see this kind of operation as very effective, but it must be frequent. Also, informers must be protected.
Yours truly,
Samlall Arjune

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