Tunisia's fight against drugs: A winnable war

Tunisia is waging a determined war against illicit drug traffickers, whom the article labels "dealers of death." The nation is committed to winning this fight by relying solely on its own resources and rejecting foreign assistance that may carry malicious intent. This national project aims for equitable development and prosperity, with citizens actively participating in combating the scourge of narcotics.

The mobilization of citizens and security forces is proving effective, with daily police raids and significant seizures by customs officials. This vigilance extends to land, sea, and air borders, as well as remote areas, revealing new criminal networks and individuals involved in drug trafficking. Tragically, some of these are children coerced by their parents into dealing, even within primary schools. Others are young individuals drawn to the easy money offered by the drug trade, such as a dried fruit vendor in Ariana found with a kilogram of cocaine and a large sum of money.

Recent customs seizures at Ras Jedir, including 25 kilograms of cocaine valued at approximately one billion Tunisian dinars, highlight the scale of the problem and attempts to launder drug money into the national economy. The article asserts that these criminals, unlike their predecessors, will not succeed in their endeavors. The nation is focused on integrating more Tunisians, particularly vulnerable youth, into the national anti-drug effort.

To achieve this, the article suggests several actions. The National Organization for Childhood, despite shrinking financial resources, must become more active on the ground, moving beyond mere statements and podcasts. The Ministry of Education is urged to incorporate a subject on the dangers of drugs into its curriculum, taught by specialists using modern pedagogical methods. Finally, citizens are implored to understand that remaining silent about the drug-related activities of acquaintances constitutes criminal complicity, akin to that of the dealers themselves.