"This good synergy intends to address mental health problems and drug abuse," Acting Governor of West Papua Paulus Waterpauw stated here on Thursday.
In presenting the rehabilitation facility for mental health patients and drug abuse victims, Waterpauw said that his side had synergized with the West Papua High Prosecutor's Office and the West Papua Narcotics Agency.
He highlighted the importance of providing services for people with mental health problems and rehabilitation for victims of drug abuse in an effort to create a healthy and quality generation.
Waterpauw emphasized that drug abusers need support to overcome their addiction and restore their physical and mental condition.
"Many drug abusers are imprisoned even though they are victims. They need physical and mental treatment," Waterpauw remarked.
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Meanwhile, Chief of the West Papua High Prosecutor's Office Harli Siregar noted that the presence of the Adhiyaksa Mental Therapy and Drug Rehabilitation Service Center will support restorative justice efforts in handling drug abuse cases.
He said that in 2022 alone, a total of 120 cases of drug abuse had been handled in the West Papua region.
According to Siregar, drug abuse cases in 2022 occurred in Manokwari, South Manokwari, Bintuni Bay, Kaimana, Wondama Bay, and Fakfak.
"Illegal drug abuse cases occur almost everywhere in West Papua. In 2023, there are already around 60 illegal drug cases," he stated.
He appealed to people in West Papua to report to local authorities if they notice or find victims of drug abuse in their surroundings, so that they can immediately receive treatment.
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Translator: Fransiskus W, Kenzu
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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