Alarm over growing drug threat

Sarah Khamis highlights one of this week's most dominant issues on social media

Major General Khamis Matar Al Muzainah addresses the anti-drugs forum in Dubai. WAM

The annual Dubai Police anti-drugs forum, held this week, focused on tackling the growing issue of narcotics use – particularly amphetamines and Captagon – and prevention and treatment of addiction. The forum was held under the patronage of Maj Gen Khamis Matar Al Mazina, commander-in-chief of Dubai Police.

Twitter users keenly followed the event and many warned that social media channels were increasingly being used by drug dealers to advertise their products and lure customers. “Do not believe that these pills will help you become more alert and make you able to study better. This is nothing but an illusion,” one wrote.

They advised families to maintain unity, which some said was crucial to keeping young people away from drugs. They also urged individuals to report addicts to the police so as to help the victims overcome addiction and live a normal life. Some users equated drug dealers to terrorists, saying that their ultimate motive is to kill people.

On Twitter: @SarahKhamisUAE