qualitative study of changes in supplying of illicit drugs in Bam during the first year after the earthquake

ABSTRACT

The study was designed to assess the changes in supplying of illicit drugs during the first year after Ban earthquake on December 2003. This qualitative research was conducted in Bam and the uillage of Baghchamak. Focus group discussions, in-depth interviews and ethnographic observations were used. The sample included drug dependents, drug sellers, ordinary people, drug treatment providers and others key informants. The majority of respondants believed that opium purity has declined after the quake and its price with initial decrement has remained relatively similar to pre-quake level. They believed it still is easily available as it had been prior to the quake. The majority of respondents believed that the purity of heroin has also declined and its price and availability did not change significant. The solid majority believed that the supply of hashish and alcohol has not been changed. Most respondents believed that the intensity of current drug law enforcement in Bam is similar to pre-quake time. Implementing a unified policy and planning for drug abuse prevention and treatment programmers are suggested. A more serious action against heroin trafficking is also recommended