Doors to recovery open: Drug control records 250 cases seeking help under new law
Advanced drug gangs target youth digitally as 250 step forward for treatment -- Qabazard
The Acting Head of the Criminal Security Sector and Director General of the Directorate-General for Drug Control, Brigadier General Mohammed Qabazard, announced that authorities have received 250 addiction-related reports since the new anti-drug law came into effect on December 15.
He said the number of reports reflects a positive response from drug users and their families to the awareness campaigns launched by the Ministry of Interior prior to the law’s implementation.
In remarks to Al-Jarida, Qabazard explained that the Anti-Narcotics Department, in coordination with the Public Prosecution, handled all cases with strict confidentiality before referring them to the competent authorities at the Ministry of Health, particularly the Addiction Treatment Center.
He noted that individuals seeking to quit drugs have begun structured treatment programs, which include clinical rehabilitation as well as educational and awareness sessions delivered by medical specialists and program supervisors.
Qabazard stressed that the opportunity for recovery remains open, encouraging addicts or their families to come forward and report cases voluntarily to begin treatment, with the goal of reintegration into society as productive individuals who positively contribute to their families and communities.
He added that the Drug Control Administration, in cooperation with the General Department of Public Relations and Security Media and other government bodies, continues to roll out awareness campaigns through lectures and events targeting students in schools, institutes, and universities.
At the same time, he warned that authorities are confronting increasingly sophisticated criminal networks that use advanced methods to manufacture narcotics, smuggle them through innovative routes, and promote them using modern digital technologies and smartphone applications.
Qabazard delivered a stern warning to drug traffickers, smugglers, and dealers, affirming that security agencies are working around the clock to dismantle smuggling routes, intercept shipments before they enter the country, and arrest anyone involved in drug promotion or use.
He emphasized that the new law provides clear and firm measures to confront anyone attempting to undermine the country’s security.
