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The National Dangerous Drugs Control Board has raised concerns over the rising drug addiction problem among Sri Lankan youth.
According to specialist Dr. Indika Wanninayake, the misuse of prescription medications is increasing, with around 150 types of drugs being used as substitutes for illegal substances. Painkillers prescribed for cancer patients and other medical conditions are among the most commonly abused.
Dr. Wanninayake warned that addiction is not limited to adults, as many schoolchildren, especially those aged 15 to 17, are also falling victim to drug abuse.
In 2024, authorities arrested 162,000 individuals for drug-related offenses. A 2019 survey estimated that the country had between 92,000 and 100,000 drug addicts, while 350,000 people were addicted to heroin and another 350,000 to cannabis.
The National Dangerous Drugs Control Board is now preparing to conduct a new survey on drug addiction later this year.
