Muscat – The Royal Oman Police (ROP) has intensified efforts to raise public awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and illicit trafficking as the sultanate joins the international community in marking the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26.

This year’s observance is held under the theme, ‘The Global Drug Problem: Ongoing Challenges, Emerging Issues, and Innovative Responses’, highlighting the need for continued action to address one of the most serious threats to public security, health and social stability.

Col Said bin Salim Al Maawali, Assistant Director General of Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Control at the ROP, said drug trafficking networks are constantly developing new methods, creating growing challenges for law enforcement agencies worldwide.

He revealed that one recently detected method involves paper infused with liquid narcotics, warning that such substances can cause rapid addiction and severely affect mental awareness and cognitive abilities.

Col Al Maawali noted that recent seizures point to an increase in synthetic and manufactured drugs, while some traditional narcotics have seen a relative decline. He stressed that all narcotic and psychotropic substances pose significant health risks and have wide-ranging social, economic and security repercussions.

He underscored the importance of community awareness and family supervision, particularly through open communication with children and youth. Families, he said, play a crucial role in identifying early warning signs and promoting positive behaviour.

The official also encouraged young people to make productive use of their leisure time through sports, hobbies and skill-development activities, especially during the summer holidays. He advised travellers to remain vigilant, avoid suspicious environments and exercise caution when visiting destinations abroad.

The ROP, in cooperation with national institutions and international partners, continues to implement security, preventive and awareness programmes aimed at protecting society from drug-related risks. These efforts include pursuing traffickers and dealers, alongside organising awareness campaigns, exhibitions and educational lectures targeting various segments of society.

Al Maawali emphasised that regional and international cooperation, including information-sharing and joint agreements, remains vital to strengthening anti-drug efforts and curbing the spread of narcotics.

As part of the observance, the ROP will organise a Sports Evening at Al Mouj Walk in Seeb on June 27 from 5pm to 9 pm. An awareness exhibition will also be held at Muscat Mall on June 28 to showcase the efforts of the Directorate General for Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances and promote public awareness of the dangers of drugs.