Drug initiative links drugs and terrorism

A nationwide anti-drug initiative is highlighting the connection between drug trafficking and terrorism. Mark Hein, a D-E-A agent based in Des Moines, says the War on Drugs has evolved into a War on Narco-Terrorism.Hein says there’s a strong connection between the drug trade and terrorists. For example, he says Afghanistan has a strong opium trade and in Columbia, revolutionary forces raise money from cocaine sales. You may have seen those commercials which suggest those who buy drugs are supporting the terrorists. He says the focus is to reduce the demand for drugs.The nationwide “Shoulder to Shoulder” campaign also highlights the dangers “club drugs” like Ecstasy present to young people, particularly women. The National Foundation for Women Legislators is joining the effort. State Representative Barbara Finch of Ames says club drugs are a problem in her college community, and they need to get information out about their dangers.Finch and Hein spoke at a statehouse news conference. Similar events were staged yesterday afternoon in other states and the District of Columbia.