Anti-drug crusade

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

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.