Police Commissioner Raymond Siu on Saturday warned that the legalisation of some drugs overseas meant some young people were less vigilant and underestimated the consequences of drug use.
He was speaking at the opening of a two-day anti-drug exhibition titled “Love Our Life - LOL Party 2023”, at the West Kowloon Cultural District.
It's intended to educate the public about the dangers of drugs, particularly young people.
Siu said the harm of drugs on society was beyond doubt, not only causing irreversible health damage, but also ruining young people’s future and their families.
However, he said he was encouraged by a fall in the number of drug-related offences committed by young people in the first three quarters of this year, reflecting the effectiveness of anti-drug publicity and education work over the past year.
He said the number of people under 21 arrested for serious drug offences was 130 - its lowest in ten years.
This weekend's exhibition will include talks from former drug users, and will include activities such as rope skipping performances, fitness sessions, and music.