KUALA LUMPUR: The Narcotic Crimes Investigation Department (NCID) will step up operations and arrests of hardcore drug addicts nationwide to curb violent crimes involving the group.

       Bukit Aman NCID director Comm Datuk Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay (pic) said his officers would conduct various measures including checking the records of addicts via an information system at state and district police headquarters to determine whether these addicts had gone back to their drug habits.

       "The NCID at state and district levels will also forge closer ties with the community to uncover more information on addicts who are repeat offenders.

       "Information on these offenders, who have the tendency to threaten family members and the community, is important.

       "We will then be able to take effective and early action," he said when contacted on Thursday (Feb 17).

       Every district NCID officer and personnel will also be tasked at going to the field and making assessment on hardcore addicts to ensure that they are not back to using drugs or facing withdrawal symptoms, Comm Ayob said.

       "Our objective is to enable the addicts to receive treatment and rehabilitation from the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) or distribution of methadone from registered clinics.

       "We hope to prevent addicts from threatening their lives or assaulting their loved ones while they are high (from drug usage) or hallucinating," he said.

       Comm Ayob said programmes involving NCID and NGOs would also be increased to assist addicts in returning to the right path and living normal lives.

       On the effects of drugs and its connection with violent crimes such as murder and assault, he said drugs affected emotion and stress while long-term effects could disrupt the mind especially addicts who are already suffering from mental problems.