YANGON- Authorities found tools to smoke WY methamphetamine tablets from 13 Grade 10 students at Basic Education High School in South Dagon Township, Yangon Region, MP Nyi Nyi said yesterday.

The students also confessed to smoking cigarettes containing marijuana. The price of such cigarettes was Ks 2,500 per piece.

“We found marijuana joints and devices to use WY tablets. Parents and the public informed the teachers about some students that are taking drugs so the teachers carried out a search on all students. In doing so, they found it on 13 senior students. The students said that they had to pay Ks 2,500 per cigarette containing marijuana and an unspecified amount for the  WY methamphetamine,” said MP Nyi Nyi.

They were handed over to their parents in accordance with the wishes of the school’s principal.

“Drug use and dealing were found at the school. It is in a bad condition. Those that tipped us off were also afraid but were brave to do so. They hoped for the benefits of the students. We would like to urge authorities to investigate the circulation of cigarettes containing marijuana as well as WY tablets in the school,” said MP Nyi Nyi.

He continues to say that the South Dagon Township had seen the  highest number of drug seizures. Recently, Yangon Region Police Force seized the drugs at two wards in South Dagon Township. Authorities must effectively tackle the sources as well as dealers. Moreover, educational talks on drugs must be held at schools.

MP Nyi Nyi also suggested that the teachers should carry out searches of students’ bags at the entrance and exit. In the past, schools have had the habits of searching students for sharp items and weapons in the bags. Since then, violence in schools has been minimal.

He, along with other MPs, submitted the proposal calling for elimination of drug use among children and students to the Yangon Region Government in September. The proposal criticized the authorities for lack of effectiveness.