NCORD meeting flags alleged misuse of OST medicines; police seize 580 Spasmo capsules, arrest two
The District Level Committee (DLC) of the Narcotics Coordination Centre (NCORD), Zunheboto, on November 9 reviewed the drug-related situation in the district, enforcement measures, alleged misuse of prescribed medicines and the need for stronger interdepartmental coordination to combat substance abuse.
The meeting was held at the ADC’s office chamber under the chairmanship of Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Shaying Sheu.
During the review of the previous meeting, the committee was informed about a joint inspection conducted by the SDPO, Zunheboto, and the Drug Inspector at pharmacies operating within Zunheboto town. Of the 17 pharmacies inspected, 10 were reportedly found operating without valid pharmacy licences. No seizure was made during the inspection.
Expressing serious concern over the continued operation of unlicensed pharmacies, the ADC directed the Drug Inspector to immediately verify the status of the establishments and take necessary action, including closure of those found operating without valid licences.
He emphasised that inspections should be conducted regularly and findings properly documented, rather than waiting for directions from higher authorities or for untoward incidents to occur. He also stressed accountability among officials and said the matter should be dealt with seriously.
The ADC further directed the Drug Inspector to ensure that the names of prescribing medical practitioners were properly mentioned on prescriptions and that all regulatory requirements were strictly followed. He said the competent licensing authority must ensure that establishments operating without valid licences were dealt with in accordance with the law.
Expressing concern that several pharmacies continued to function without valid licences despite previous inspection drives, he urged the concerned department to strengthen enforcement and ensure effective implementation of regulatory measures.
On awareness initiatives, the ADC directed the School Education Department to undertake extensive awareness activities. He stressed that such programmes should go beyond merely posting photographs on social media and focus on meaningful public outreach and sustained awareness among students and the wider community.
The meeting also discussed concerns over the alleged misuse and diversion of Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) medicines in the district.
Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr G. Viholi Sema informed the committee that inspections had been conducted and concerns had emerged regarding the alleged sale of prescribed medicines by registered beneficiaries. However, no individual had been caught red-handed, and the allegations remained unverified.
The CMO highlighted practical challenges faced by beneficiaries, particularly those travelling from far-flung areas to access their daily medication. The committee was informed that the Akuluto centre followed a daily-dose system rather than dispensing medicines in bulk.
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The district currently has 1,150 registered OST beneficiaries, of whom 893 are in Zunheboto town alone.
Seeking clarification on measures to prevent alleged misuse, the ADC asked the Health Department to explore effective mechanisms to prevent diversion of medicines and strengthen beneficiary monitoring. He emphasised the need for proper supervision and appropriate action wherever irregularities were established.
It was also informed that Zunheboto district has only one rehabilitation centre, highlighting the need for greater attention to rehabilitation facilities and support services for individuals affected by substance abuse.
Meanwhile, SDPO Zunheboto K Phyolumo Lotha informed the committee that police had seized 580 Spasmo capsules and arrested two persons in connection with drug-related cases during October 2026.
Urging all concerned departments to go beyond their routine official responsibilities, the ADC called for proactive engagement, stronger coordination and greater commitment to addressing the challenges associated with drug abuse.
He reiterated that sustained enforcement, regular inspections, public awareness, proper monitoring and coordinated departmental efforts were essential to combating drug abuse and safeguarding public health and safety in the district.
