KUWAIT: First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah affirmed the ministry’s unwavering commitment to combating what he described as “the pandemic of illicit drugs”, pledging continued efforts to safeguard society from this growing threat. In remarks to Al-Akhbar News TV on Friday, Sheikh Fahad said the ministry of interior draws its strength and determination from the directives of HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
He noted HH the Amir’s full support has enabled the ministry to achieve significant progress in the fight against drug trafficking, revealing that nearly 90 percent of narcotics entering the country have been intercepted and destroyed. The minister stated that the Cabinet, during its weekly meeting, approved a draft law regulating narcotics and psychotropic substances. The legislation aims to curb drug use and trafficking while tightening penalties for offenders. The bill will be submitted to HH the Amir for final endorsement, he added.
Sheikh Fahad also directed the ministry’s general directorate of security relations and media to collaborate with the ministry of information on a nationwide awareness campaign. The initiative, to include public service announcements before news bulletins, will coincide with the implementation of the new law. He emphasized that drug traffickers continue to target Gulf Cooperation Council countries, underscoring the collective resolve of member states to confront the scourge of narcotics. — KUNA
