Prevent and tackle use of narcotics, drugs

By Staff Reporter — MUSCAT: May 17 - The World Drug Day was observed by the Executive Office of the National Committee for Narcotics & Psychotropic Substances (NCNPS) in collaboration with several agencies on Wednesday. It was observed under the theme, ‘Drugs are the beginning of the worst end’. The event was presided over by His Highness Al Sayyid Dr Adham bin Turki  al Said. Dr Ahmed Mohammed al Saidi, Minister of Health, under-secretaries and members of NCNPS were also present. Dr Mahmood Zahir al Abri, supervisor of the NCNPS Executive Office, said the day aims at highlighting efforts of the national committee in combating the spread of drug menace across community.

The event comprised an accompanying exhibition organised by the Executive Office of NCNPS, Ministry of Social Development and Directorate of Narcotics Control.

Rehabilitated patients from Al Massarah Hospital participated in the expo along with the Directorate-General of Prisons.

The event displayed the model of a school that implemented FAWASEL (UNPLUGGED) programme, which aims at promoting positive health behaviour and preventing substance abuse. The internationally recognised programme will be expanded to cover all schools in the Sultanate with efforts from NCNPS and Ministry of Education.

The event introduced the TAKAEUF programme that will reintegrate the rehabilitated addicts into the community.

The attendees toured a drug mobile bus affiliated to the Directorate General of Narcotics Control that was raising awareness on the impact of narcotics and psychotropic substances.

The NCNPS was formed in 2000 by a ministerial decision in execution of the Royal Decree No 17/1999.

Efforts have been made at many levels in combating risks of drugs. At the therapeutic level, a number of agreements have been signed for constructing drug addicts’ therapy and rehab centres in Muscat and Sohar with support from the private sector.

The NCNPS is at present trying to establish a comprehensive national strategy that involves all aspects associated with drugs ranging from prevention, control, treatment, rehabilitation and surveillance to surveys.