Drugs pose a serious threat to democracy and the general way of life in the Caribbean region and governments continue to ignore the root causes of crime while treating the symptoms, according to Rear-Admiral Hardley Lewin, former chief of staff of Jamaica Defence Force.

The movement of illicit drugs across the region is linked to increased levels of crime and violence, corruption, the trade of illegal arms and ammunition and a negative reputation for nationals, Admiral Lewin said on Friday, …..