Brigadier General Saeed Abdullah Al Suwaidi, Director General of the Federal Anti Narcotics General Directorate of the Ministry of Interior, highlighted the UAE’s national efforts and pioneering experience in combating drugs and psychotropic substances on the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. Al Suwaidi underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing this social threat.
The UAE stands out as a leader in drug control, all thanks to its National Anti-Narcotics Charter. This plan is implemented through the integrated system of partners and relevant entities under the UAE Anti-Narcotic Council. The council makes sures a coordinated approach, bringing together federal, local and governmental bodies.
The UAE government’s pledge to drug control is visible in its innovative mechanisms and awareness programs designed to society’s needs. The Siraj National Anti-Drug Programme is a prime example, contributing to safer communities. Al Suwaidi also highlighted the importance and need of the “Mukafih” service, which provides confidential consultations via a toll free number, encouraging parents to detect drug use and early addiction cases within the family surroundings.
The Ministry of Interior reported the arrest of 11,988 suspected drug traffickers and the seizure of over 29.7 tonnes of narcotics in 2023. Dubai Police obstructed a smuggling attempt involving over 13 tonnes of Captagon worth $1.05 billion and Sharjah Police reported a 24% increase in drug seizures compared to the previous year.
The UAE has parlayed advanced technologies to fight drug trafficking. AI-powered tools have helped seize 78 tonnes of drugs worth Dh2.4 billion and hinder the promotion of narcotics on social media and digital platforms over the past five years. The UAE has blocked social media platforms and websites promoting drugs both locally and globally and also launched awareness campaigns motivating people to report any Whatsapp messages promoting drugs.
The UAE collaborates with over 30 countries to fight drug trafficking, participating in 196 international operations that resulted in perturbation of 179 suspects and the expropriation of 6.9 tonnes of drugs. Collaborations with global partners like Meta have further solidified efforts against drug trafficking.
The UAE government and police forces have launched several campaigns and initiatives to help people combating drug addiction. The Anti-Narcotics Council organized a brainstorming session under the directives of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, H.H.Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to devise new plans and strategies to fight drug trafficking.
Brigadier General Al Suwaidi emphasized the UAE’s ongoing efforts to combat the drug menace, achieving pivotal achievements through groundbreaking policies, advanced technologies and a qualified national cadre. The UAE’s collaboration with international drug control organizations continues to create safer and better, drug free communities around the globe.
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