The Anti-Narcotics Directorate of Abu Dhabi Police has issued a stern warning about the perilous effects of drugs that induce hallucinations, violence, and erratic behavior among users.
Warning Against Dangerous Drugs and Family Roles in Prevention
Brigadier General Taher Gharib Al Dhaheri, Director of the Narcotics Control Directorate, emphasized the deceptive tactics employed by drug dealers, who propagate false notions of euphoria and enhanced activity associated with drug use. These misconceptions, according to Al Dhaheri, contribute significantly to the rampant spread of drug abuse.
Al Dhaheri highlighted the severe risks posed by certain drugs that cause hallucinations and relaxation but result in perilous consequences, particularly when users operate vehicles under the influence. He underscored that some substances induce extreme violence and erratic behavioral changes, posing dangers not only to the users themselves but also to society at large.
Recognizing the family as the cornerstone of societal stability, Al Dhaheri stressed the pivotal role of familial cohesion in shielding individuals, especially children, from the lure of drugs. He emphasized the necessity of open dialogue within families, advocating against fear and intimidation as ineffective approaches to combating drug abuse.
Impact of Family Disintegration
Al Dhaheri warned against familial discord or concealed conflicts between spouses, citing these as factors that weaken parental control over children and increase susceptibility to drug dealers' manipulation. He emphasized the critical need for comprehensive awareness campaigns to educate families about various drug types and prevention strategies, emphasizing that prevention is more effective than treatment.
Role of Awareness Campaigns and Support Services
Al Dhaheri highlighted the efficacy of the Hope Chance service in disseminating awareness materials, noting a significant uptake in website visits as families seek crucial information. He underscored the pivotal role of families in encouraging drug users to seek treatment, urging them to utilize services provided by the Narcotics Control Directorate and the Public Prosecution for rehabilitation.
Addressing the rehabilitation phase, Al Dhaheri cautioned against isolating recovering individuals, which could lead them back into harmful environments. He stressed the importance of providing continuous support to rehabilitated individuals, helping them adopt healthy lifestyles, and engaging in community activities that promote optimism and resilience.
Al Dhaheri emphasized the necessity of filling recovered individuals' leisure time with purposeful activities and community engagement. By fostering a supportive environment and encouraging participation in sports clubs and community events, families and communities can facilitate the successful reintegration of recovered individuals into society.
Moreover, Al Dhaheri reiterated the critical need for concerted efforts from families, communities, and authorities to combat drug abuse effectively. Through proactive prevention measures, supportive rehabilitation, and community involvement, Abu Dhabi aims to mitigate the detrimental impact of drugs and ensure a healthier, safer society for all its residents.
