Upper East NACOC marks World Drug Day with donation to Presbyterian Psychiatric Hospital in Bolgatanga

The Upper East Regional Command of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has commemorated the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, also known as World Drug Day, by donating assorted items to the Presbyterian Psychiatric Hospital in Bolgatanga.

The items includes clothes for both males and females, toiletries, soft drinks, bags of sachets water, soaps,detols, and many other assorted items.

The annual gesture forms part of NACOC's commitment to supporting the rehabilitation and recovery of persons battling substance use disorders while raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.

Speaking during the presentation, the Upper East Regional Commander of NACOC, Mr. Saeed Abdul-Aziz, emphasized that the Commission's mandate extends beyond arresting drug traffickers and users.

"Our responsibility is not only to arrest people who traffic or use illicit drugs. We also have a duty to ensure that those affected receive rehabilitation and are successfully reintegrated into their families and society."

Mr. Abdul-Aziz explained that many individuals who abuse drugs require medical attention, counselling and continuous social support to overcome addiction.

"This donation is part of what we have been doing every year to support both the hardworking staff and patients receiving treatment for drug-related conditions. Recovery is possible when society shows compassion and provides the needed support."

He appealed to the public to stop stigmatizing people recovering from addiction and instead encourage them throughout the rehabilitation process.

The Officer in Charge of Education at NACOC, Jennifer Abedi, said the donation symbolized the Commission's love, care and solidarity with both healthcare workers and patients.

"Today's gesture is to show love and appreciation to the dedicated staff who continue to care for these patients and to remind the patients that they are not forgotten. Together, we can help them rebuild their lives."

She further encouraged young people to stay away from illicit drugs, stressing that prevention remains the most effective way to address substance abuse.

Receiving the items on behalf of the facility, staff of the Presbyterian Psychiatric Hospital expressed profound appreciation to NACOC for the timely support.

"We are grateful for this thoughtful donation. It will go a long way to support our patients, and we encourage other institutions, organizations and individuals to emulate this kind gesture by extending similar support to the hospital."

One of the patients undergoing rehabilitation described the donation as a source of hope and encouragement.

"This support shows us that we are not alone. It gives us hope that society still cares about us. When we leave here, we will educate our friends and colleagues about the dangers of drug addiction so they do not make the same mistakes."

The observance of World Drug Day served as a reminder that addressing drug abuse requires collective action involving law enforcement agencies, healthcare professionals, families, educational institutions and communities.

The donation by the Upper East Regional NACOC Command reinforces the message that while the fight against illicit drugs includes law enforcement, rehabilitation, compassion and public education remain essential pillars in helping affected individuals recover and become productive members of society.