The Imo government has raised concern about a remodelled form of crystal meth, a narcotic commonly known as `strawberry quick’, and alerted students about the danger of using the disguised narcotic.

The warning was made in a statement by the special adviser to Governor Hope Uzodimma on narcotics and illicit drug monitoring, Ezechukwu Obonna, on Thursday.

Mr Obonna said the drug, which came in the form of strawberries to avoid being easily detected, is fast spreading across secondary schools and alerted students about the danger of using the disguised narcotic.

“The drug is another form of crystal meth, which is popularly known as ‘mkpuru mmiri’, so we advise students to be on the alert and avoid accepting gifts from strangers,“ he said.

Mr Obonna added that the awareness creation was part of a larger campaign by the state government aimed at educating students about the dangers of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking.

He emphasised the importance of making informed choices and the need for students to prioritise their health, well-being, and education. He also mentioned the various types of commonly abused drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, and opioids, highlighting their effects and the potential long-term damage they could cause.

He further said the resources available to support individuals struggling with drug addiction include counselling services and rehabilitation programs, which everyone, including students, can access.

According to him, state government representatives are collaborating with the Drug Demand Reduction Department of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in Imo as part of the ongoing campaign.

“In collaboration with the NDLEA, we visited the Akwakuma Girls Secondary School to promote awareness and education about drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking and in supporting the well-being and safety of the students.

“The visit was an opportunity for the students to ask questions and seek guidance on how to navigate the challenges of drug abuse and peer pressure,“ he said.

(NAN)