UAE warns of drugs hidden in sweets, A4 paper and surprise deliveries

Abu Dhabi authorities have issued a warning about drug traffickers employing sneaky tactics to target children and teenagers. The National Anti-Narcotics Authority shared three methods they have recently detected, aimed at protecting young people from drug abuse. One method involves narcotics being dissolved or soaked into sheets of standard A4 paper, making the drugs harder to spot during transport and distribution.

Another involves hiding narcotics within sweets, while the third method utilizes unexpected packages or gifts sent through delivery companies from unfamiliar numbers. Authorities urged families and young people to refrain from accepting suspicious packages or interacting with unknown individuals offering gifts or deliveries. The National Anti-Narcotics Authority emphasized that families play a crucial role in safeguarding children.

They advised maintaining open communication with children and observing any unusual behavioral changes. Family protection is based on three main aspects: awareness, stability, and emotional support. The authority also treated addiction as a medical condition requiring treatment and care, instead of allowing fear or stigma to deter families from seeking help.

The UAE National Rehabilitation Center, Hisn service, offers confidential channels for reporting, support, and treatment. To further combat drug trafficking, the authority collaborated with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security and local customs departments to strengthen checks at UAE borders.

Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director-General of the Federal Authority, highlighted the significance of cooperation between authorities and ongoing enhancements to customs inspection systems. The National Anti-Narcotics Authority recently concluded a nationwide awareness campaign, held with the UAE Government Media Office under the slogan “United in Eliminating the Scourge.”

This campaign focused on families, young people, and schools, with a specific emphasis on increasing awareness, promoting communication, and assisting children in rejecting enticements to engage in drug use. The authority also cautioned about the risks associated with electronic cigarettes and vaping, including their potential misuse in drug-related activities.

Officials stressed that ongoing awareness at home, in schools, and across digital platforms remains vital in protecting young people from evolving drug promotion and trafficking methods.