Pretoria - Government has expressed its deepest condolences to the families and friends of two students who died after taking a drug at a party in KwaMashu, north of Durban.
The two students died, while 32 others were hospitalised after taking a drug known on the street as "data" or "umgwinyo". The drug had been passed around at the party last Friday.
“Government sends its deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who died and a speedy recovery to those who were admitted to hospital,” said Acting Cabinet spokesperson Phumla Williams.
Williams said the unfortunate incident should not have happened, adding that everyone has the responsibility to address the issue of drug abuse in communities, especially among youngsters.
“Government has taken the lead in fighting substance abuse through various national initiatives contained in its Anti-Substance National Plan of Action, which is a collective effort towards a South Africa that is free of drug abuse.
“The Department of Social Development has increased its footprint in communities by capacitating the community-based organisations to create awareness about substance abuse and assist with the referral of high risk users to treatment facilities for comprehensive assessment and treatment services,” Williams said.
Government has urged the community of KwaMashu to assist law enforcement agencies in their investigations on this case by contacting the police on 0860 10111 in order to ensure that the perpetrators of drug dealing are brought to book.
Those struggling with drug and alcohol abuse are encouraged to call the Department of Social Development’s toll free number 0800 428 428 or National Substance Abuse Helpline 0800 12 13 14 to receive counselling and assistance. – SAnews.gov.za
