Drug addiction among Sri Lankan youth on the rise, warns National Drugs Board

By Indika Sri Aravinda

The National Dangerous Drugs Control Board has expressed growing concern over the escalating drug addiction issue among youth in Sri Lanka.

Specialist Dr. Indika Wanninayake said that the use of prescription medications is on the rise, with around 150 different types of drugs being used as substitutes for illegal substances. 

These medications, including painkillers prescribed for cancer patients and other medical conditions, are increasingly being misused by addicts.

Dr. Wanninayake further emphasised that the addiction crisis is not limited to adults, with a significant number of schoolchildren and youths, particularly those aged 15 to 17, falling victim to drug abuse.

In 2024, authorities have arrested 162,000 individuals involved in drug-related offenses.

A survey conducted in 2019 revealed that the country had between 92,000 and 100,000 drug addicts, with 350,000 individuals addicted to heroin and another 350,000 to cannabis.

In addition, Dr. Wanninayake said that the National Dangerous Drugs Control Board is preparing to conduct a new survey on drug addiction later this year.