As the Ministry of Interior intensifies its ongoing campaign against drug dealers, a recent government report reveals the extent of the problem in Kuwait. According to the report cited by Al-Qabas daily, a significant 60% of the prison population is serving sentences related to drug use and trafficking.
Over the past decade, the General Secretariat of the Supreme Council for Planning’s report indicates that 25,000 individuals have been convicted in 19,000 drug-related cases. These numbers highlight the alarming prevalence of drug-related crimes in the country.
The report also underscores the significant contribution of drug-related crimes to the overall crime rate. Official medical reports demonstrate the correlation between criminal activities and the abuse of various narcotics, which affect mental perception. In fact, out of every 100 cases examined by security services, 70 are found to be linked to drug offenses.
Under the directives of First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Sheikh Talal Al-Khaled, relevant agencies have approved an advanced plan to combat drug smugglers and safeguard the country from their threats. This comprehensive strategy includes international coordination to disrupt smuggling operations targeting Kuwait, implementing stringent procedures and modern mechanisms at ports, and intensifying efforts to apprehend drug traffickers within the country.
In 2023, drug seizures have reached a 15-year high, indicating the effectiveness of the government’s efforts. Notable incidents include the confiscation of 800 kilograms of various drugs and approximately 1.5 million psychotropic pills within a three-month period (from August to October 2023). Additionally, a thwarted attempt to smuggle 800 kilograms of hashish from Lebanon to Kuwait was also reported.
International coordination efforts have been crucial in apprehending smuggling gangs planning to use Kuwait as a transit station for promoting various drugs. In recent months, 64 expatriates were arrested with drugs and now face deportation.
The Ministry of Interior, through its various sectors, has been successful in apprehending numerous suspects involved in various drug cases. In a single day in August, authorities seized 6,150 kilograms of various drugs and 763 psychotropic pills. These operations demonstrate the government’s commitment to eradicating drug trafficking in Kuwait.
First Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Talal Al-Khaled emphasizes Kuwait’s robust efforts in combating drug trafficking, citing unprecedented seizures in the past two years. He underscores the nefarious intentions of drug smuggling gangs, who aim to undermine the country’s capabilities and target its youth by creating a market for drug trade in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.
In conclusion, Kuwait is actively fighting against drug trafficking through comprehensive strategies, international coordination, and successful operations. The government’s commitment to combating this issue is evident in the significant number of arrests and drug seizures. By intensifying efforts and implementing stringent procedures, Kuwait aims to create a safer and drug-free society for its citizens.
Source: TimesKuwait
