TOKYO (TR) – As the spread of illegal drugs like cocaine becomes more serious among young people, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police have released a new video calling for caution.
The video, based on testimonies and personal accounts from drug abusers, introduces the dangers of illegal drugs and the risk that once someone starts, it can become difficult to quit.
One person in the video says that users of drugs like cocaine realize they will run out of money more quickly as their usage increases. Some, the person says, could turn to prostitution.
According to police, marijuana and cocaine abuse is particularly problematic among young people under the age of 29. The number of cocaine seizures reached approximately 280 last year, a jump of 1.5 times over the year before.
Tokyo Metropolitan Police held an event on Tuesday to promote the video. Comedian Hikorohee, who appeared in the video, and the department’s mascot, Pipo-kun, were present.
Hikorohee said he wanted people to have a proper fear of illegal drugs. He urged those who have not previously been interested in drug abuse prevention to watch the video.
Yoshio Kawachi, head of the Tokyo police’s Drug and Firearms Control Division, said, “Hikorohee’s message is very persuasive. I am convinced that if young people watch the video, they will never try drugs.”
He added, “I hope that through this video we can reduce the number of young people who try drugs, even if it’s just one person.”
