Fujairah // Police will hold a number of events across the emirate to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse on Thursday.
Among them will be an awareness drive at Fujairah City Centre mall, and the screening of a film about the effects of drug abuse.
“Our role is to spread awareness and emphasise the hazards of drug addiction,” said Maj Saeed Al Hassani of the Fujairah Police. “The event [at the mall] will include a wide range of activities and theatre performances.”
Brochures about the initiative, called Be in a Good Company, Say No to Drugs, will be distributed across the emirate. They will detail how to help someone if they are suffering from drug addiction.
Police say that anyone caught importing drugs will face harsh penalties. However, any addict who came to officers of their own volition would face no legal action.
“Possession of the smallest amount of illegal drugs is punishable by a minimum of four years’ imprisonment, but drug addicts who voluntarily report themselves to us will not face any legal action. Instead, we will help them overcome their condition,” said Maj Al Hassani.
“We are also in the process of creating a short film on how drug abuse and addiction can develop and how it will impact personality, relationships, society, health and other life aspects.
“With the participation of young beginner actors and producers from Fujairah, it should be ready before the end of June.”
International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has been held each June 26 since 1988 to raise awareness of the major problems that illicit drugs represent to society. It is supported by individuals, communities and organisations from across the globe.
newsdesk@thenational.ae
