Fight against drug
TDT | Manama
Coinciding with the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Community Affairs of the Public Security Presidency organised a visit to the Drug Recovery Association, as part of its ongoing efforts to raise community awareness of the scourge of drugs.
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TDT | Manama Strategy spans rehab and policing The Gulf Cooperation Council has unveiled a sweeping anti-drug strategy for 2025 to 2028 that combines tougher enforcement with social reintegration programmes, marking one of the most comprehensive Gulf-wide actions against drug trafficking and addiction to date. GCC Secretary-General Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi announced the plan at a regional celebration for Gulf Anti-Drug Week and the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, held at the General Secretariat headquarters in Riyadh yesterday. High-level officials from interior ministries and anti-narcotics agencies across member states were present. Security and society combined Al-Budaiwi said the new strategy reflects unified action based on the directives of Gulf leaders, aiming to reduce both the supply and demand for drugs through an integrated framework that addresses prevention, security, and treatment. Key pillars of the 2025–2028 strategy include cutting supply chains, promoting alternative development, enhancing legislation, combating money laundering linked to drug trafficking, and building a regional monitoring system. It also emphasises training, capacity building, and coordinated awareness campaigns. Rehab and reintegration Significantly, the plan also highlights the importance of social integration for recovering addicts, calling on families and communities to serve as the first line of defence. Al-Budaiwi urged a cultural shift that supports recovering addicts in regaining self-confidence and participating actively in society. Hospitals, treatment centres, and rehabilitation programmes in GCC countries will be tasked with offering support through education, skills training, and job placement, while combating stigma that may hinder longterm recovery. Call for regional unity The Secretary- General stressed that drug control is a shared responsibility and praised ongoing partnerships with ministries of health, justice, education, and social affairs, in addition to customs agencies, coast guards, and national committees. He reaffirmed the GCC's commitment to deepening cooperation with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and other international bodies to ensure cross-border coordination and lasting impact. The strategy is expected to serve as a unifying roadmap across the region in confronting what Al-Budaiwi called a 'dangerous scourge' threatening Gulf societies and future generations.


Daily Tribune
4 days ago
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‘Seek voluntary treatment'
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Daily Tribune
4 days ago
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Anti-drug crusade
Bahrain has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the global fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking. It aligns with the international community in marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed annually on June 26. His Excellency General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Interior Minister and Chairman of the National Committee for Combating Drugs, delivered a speech underscoring the Kingdom's proactive role in tackling the global drug crisis. Leadership He highlighted the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the continuous support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in the Kingdom's sustained efforts to fight the global menace. 'Bahrain reaffirms its commitment to international partnership and collaborative work in combating drug abuse, in line with its leading regional and global role,' said General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah. Emphasising the collective responsibility in addressing this global issue, the Interior Minister noted that drug abuse is not merely a security concern, but a societal challenge requiring joint action across all sectors. Responsibility 'The responsibility of confronting the dangers and challenges of drug abuse is not limited to security authorities alone, but is a shared duty among all segments of society,' he stated. 'This requires intensified efforts and a strong sense of responsibility to counter all forms of smuggling and trafficking.' The Kingdom's anti-drug strategy includes enhancing law enforcement capabilities, strengthening inter-agency coordination, and fostering community engagement. This approach forms part of the second edition of the National Plan to Combat Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, which builds on the success of the first edition that achieved a 97% success rate, according to official statistics. Cases Between January and April 2025, Bahrain registered approximately 710 drug-related cases, with over 182 kilograms of narcotics seized during the same period — a testament to the vigilance and effectiveness of national security operations. The Interior Minister praised the efforts of the Anti-Narcotics Directorate at the General Directorate of Criminal Investigation and Forensic Science, alongside all cooperating security agencies, ministries, institutions, and individuals. 'I would like to thank all those who contributed and cooperated in this field,' he said. 'Their sincere and continuous efforts have been vital in fulfilling our security responsibilities and protecting society from this dangerous scourge.' Public awareness The Minister also stressed the importance of public awareness campaigns to address the economic, health, and social harms caused by drug abuse, urging society to unify efforts and utilise all available resources. Bahrain's comprehensive approach involves controlling narcotic and psychotropic substances, regulating precursors and chemicals, and addressing all related criminal activities. The national strategy is closely aligned with international standards and partnerships, reinforcing Bahrain's role as a committed global actor in the fight against drugs.