The rampant spread of drugs in the country is being cited as a major factor contributing to the alarming rise in rape cases. Experts claim that the easy availability of narcotics, particularly Yaba and heroin, is fueling criminal behavior, including heinous acts like rape. After consuming drugs, many individuals, especially those addicted to Yaba and heroin, reportedly lose their sense of morality and judgment, leading them to engage in crimes they would not otherwise commit.
The Link Between Drugs and Crime: According to law enforcement and health experts, drugs are involved in 60 percent of rape incidents, as well as post-rape murders and other violent crimes across the country. They explain that drug addiction intensifies sexual urges and often leads to the perpetration of serious crimes. Drug addicts have been found to admit that after using Yaba or heroin, they lose control over their actions and engage in criminal behavior without fully comprehending the consequences.
The Prevalence of Drugs in the Country: The widespread distribution of drugs has become a major concern, with drug cases now accounting for the highest number of criminal cases in the country. More than 50,000 drug-related cases are filed annually, with figures continuing to rise. This growing trend of drug abuse is contributing to an increase in various crimes, particularly sexual violence.
In February 2024, for instance, 3,632 drug cases were registered across the country. During the same month, 1,430 cases of women and children’s abuse were reported, alongside numerous other criminal activities, including robbery, banditry, and murder. The high number of drug-related offenses underscores the disturbing reality that drugs play a significant role in escalating criminal behavior, particularly rape.
Drug Addiction and Its Psychological Impact: Health and psychological experts emphasize that drug use, particularly Yaba and heroin, alters the behavior and thinking patterns of individuals, pushing them toward violence and aggression. Experts suggest that as drug addiction intensifies, people’s empathy and moral compass begin to erode, causing them to commit heinous acts. This increase in sexual violence is partly due to the fact that drug addicts experience heightened sexual desires, which they are often unable to control, leading to the perpetration of rape.
The Need for Rehabilitation Centers: The rising link between drug use and violent crime highlights a critical need for rehabilitation services. Drug addicts, who are often viewed as criminals, need to be treated as patients and provided with proper medical care and psychological rehabilitation. Unfortunately, the country lacks sufficient rehabilitation centers, leaving many addicts without access to the support they need to recover. This shortage of facilities exacerbates the problem, as untreated addicts continue to spiral into criminal behavior, including rape.
Law Enforcement and Public Awareness: AIG of Police Headquarters Enamul Haque Sagar acknowledged the connection between drugs and violent crimes, including rape, stating that drug cases represent the largest category of criminal cases in the country. With over 50,000 drug-related cases filed every year, the severity of the situation is evident. The government and law enforcement agencies face immense challenges in curbing the drug trade and addressing the root causes of drug addiction and its association with crime.
Authorities emphasize the importance of raising public awareness about the detrimental effects of drug abuse, not only on individual health but also on society as a whole. The goal is to reduce the availability of drugs, especially those like Yaba and heroin, which have been linked to increased criminality.
The disturbing rise in rape and other violent crimes in the country is deeply connected to the easy availability of drugs, particularly Yaba and heroin. While drug use is contributing to a range of criminal activities, rape cases are among the most concerning. Experts argue that addressing the issue requires a multi-faceted approach, including better rehabilitation services, stricter enforcement of anti-drug laws, and greater awareness of the psychological impact of drug addiction.
If these issues are not addressed, the cycle of drug abuse and violent crime will continue to worsen, leading to more victims of sexual violence and other criminal acts. The urgent need for intervention, prevention, and support for drug addicts has never been clearer.
