Reduction in Poppy Planting and Drug Use Reported in Pangwa Under KIO Rule

Pajau Media

19 December 2025

The Pangwa area was previously known as a region where poppy cultivation and the production and trade of narcotics were carried out freely in past years. However, since the KIO government took control, such activities have reportedly declined significantly.

The KIO government has designated narcotic drugs as a common enemy of all people and is actively prioritizing efforts to eradicate them within KIA controlled territories, according to sources.

Local administrative officials and community based anti drug groups (PJS) have worked together to repeatedly conduct awareness raising trainings and public talks, which residents say has contributed to the decline.

Residents further explained that support and leadership were jointly provided to help local people replace poppy cultivation with alternative crops. As a result, drug use, cultivation, and the production and trade of narcotics in the Pangwa area have decreased.

Pangwa came under KIO administration after being captured by KIA joint forces during an offensive on 18 October last year, and it has remained under the KIO’s administrative system up to the present.

News: Pilan U