Commissioner defends ‘Drug-Free Peshawar’ campaign

PESHAWAR: Commissioner of Peshawar Riaz Khan Mahsud has defended the ‘Drug-free Peshawar’ campaign, insisting that its integrity is intact and open to any scrutiny.

“My office is fully accountable and open to audits by any institution. We welcome transparency, but false propaganda aimed at undermining public service will be dealt with legally,” he said when contacted by this correspondent.

Meanwhile, a local organisation has supported the campaign, flaying what it termed a smear attempt against the administration.The organization praised the commissioner for addressing a critical issue without any financial interest or personal gain, and for ensuring that the campaign remained people-focused and transparent.

Shehzad Ahmad, President of the Pakistan Business Forum supported the administration. “Effective police cooperation, expanded rehabilitation services, and continuous public awareness are vital to its success,” he said.

Khalid Gul Mohmand of the same forum, termed the allegations against the campaign politically motivated and unfounded. “Those attacking the campaign are harming the cause of public welfare. We stand by the commissioner and demand immediate initiation of the fourth phase,” he stated.

It needs to be mentioned here that the “Drug-free Peshawar” campaign, led by the Social Welfare Department, has completed three phases so far, targeting drug hotspots, launching awareness drives in educational institutions, and connecting addicts with rehabilitation centres.The upcoming fourth phase will expand the campaign’s reach by involving local police, healthcare providers, and community-based organisations to ensure sustainability and impact.