In an interview with PC FM, ‘Mamokhele Kharipe from the Anti-Drug Abuse Association of Lesotho (ADAAL), urged parents to lead by example and spend more time monitoring their children’s activities and social circles.

Community members, including Keketso Khobai and Rethabile Hlosi noted that, boys as young as 16 are the most affected, driven by unemployment and peer pressure. They warned that, the crisis has led to a breakdown in family discipline, with rising cases of theft, school dropouts and teenage pregnancies.

Residents are calling for more constructive activities to keep the youth engaged and away from local bars and clubs.