Pubdate: Thu, 25 Mar 2004 Source: Age, The (Australia) Copyright: 2004 The Age Company Ltd Contact: http://www.theage.com.au/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/5 Author: Lloyd Jones TROOPS RAIDED IN ARMY DRUGS CRACKDOWN Queensland police and their military counterparts today raided barracks in Townsville as part of the army's continuing crackdown on illegal drug use among soldiers. Brigadier David Morrison, Commander 3 Brigade, said the raids at Lavarack Barracks targeted 19 soldiers from a number of the brigade's units after information was received alleging illegal drug use. He said the raids by 25 officers from the Military Police and Queensland Police should not reflect on the outstanding work done by the majority of soldiers within those units or the entire brigade. "The Army takes the misuse of drugs seriously because it affects the safety and wellbeing of our members," he said. Brigadier Morrison said the misuse of drugs and alcohol led to lower performance, health impairment and security risks and could put soldiers in unnecessary danger. "The continuous reinforcement of our zero tolerance approach is critical in ensuring an efficient and effective Army for the nation." Brigadier Morrison said the Army had comprehensive drug awareness campaigns, so soldiers were aware of the risks and consequences associated with the misuse of illegal drugs. Soldiers who used illegal drugs risked paying a high personal and professional price and could be dismissed from the Army, he said. - --- MAP posted-by: Jackl