Pubdate: Mon, 01 Aug 2005
Source: New Straits Times (Malaysia)
Copyright: 2005 NST Online
Contact:  http://www.nst.com.my/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3734
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth)

MORE STUDENTS TRAFFICKING DRUGS

The involvement of children in drugs is rising -- even involving 
trafficking, which carries the death penalty.

According to police statistics, 49 schoolchildren were arrested for 
drug-related offences from January to May. Of the number, five are 
suspected of involvement in drug trafficking.

This rise was due to the lucrative nature of the drug trade, said ACP Abdul 
Halim Abdullah.

"Schoolchildren become pushers to get rich fast," said Halim, who is the 
Federal CID principal assistant director for intelligence.

Criminals are also taking advantage of the law as minors are protected 
against being sentenced to death.

Halim said the changing lifestyle of youths has contributed to the rise of 
schoolchildren being in possession of drugs.
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