Awareness event focuses on drug risks, online blackmail

Salalah, July 29
A community awareness event held in Salalah brought together healthcare professionals, law enforcement officers and members of the public to discuss the growing dangers of drug addiction and cybercrime.
One of the event’s key speakers, Dr Hossam Fattouh, Head of Awqad Health Centre, described addiction as a chronic illness that alters brain function and behaviour, requiring comprehensive medical and psychological care.
“Addiction doesn’t happen overnight,” Dr Fattouh said. “It develops in stages – starting with habituation, then building tolerance and eventually leading to full dependency on the substance.” He noted that addiction can stem from a wide range of substances – including illegal drugs, synthetic compounds and even prescription medications when misused.
Warning signs, he said, include sudden behavioural changes, poor academic or work performance, mood instability, social withdrawal, neglect of appearance, new associations with questionable peers and unusual financial behaviour.
“Recovery is possible,” he added, “but it requires a clear treatment plan, psychological support and long-term follow-up. Family and community support are essential to lasting recovery.”
Major Engineer Ahmed bin Awadh al Mashikhi, Deputy Director of Criminal Investigations at the ROP in Dhofar, outlined the types and legal definitions of cybercrime. He described the emotional toll such crimes take on victims and detailed practical steps individuals can take to protect their privacy online.
“Recognising the early signs of blackmail and reporting incidents to the authorities can prevent greater harm,” he said.