Abu Dhabi: The latest techniques in dealing with addiction to narcotics are being taught to UAE officials, a representative of the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement and UN Crime Congress said.
Additionally, there has been a 50 per cent reduction in the use of cocaine around the globe since its peak, Ambassador Luis Arreaga, principal deputy assistant secretary of state for the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement and a special representative of the secretary of state of the UN Crime Congress.
“Although those involved in drug trafficking and organised crime in general are constantly changing their methods and the ingredients being used in their substances, our combined efforts with other governments has succeeded in reducing the overall demand,” he said.
Arreaga made the remarks on Thursday at a media round-table in Abu Dhabi as part of a visit to the UAE.
However, Arreaga revealed that producing and transit countries are facing increased drug use and even children are being given drugs as a reward for selling them.
“The challenge lies in keeping up with the constant changes being made to the drug scene. It is important to note that spotting even what seems to be the slightest substance use in youngsters, such as sniffing glue, is integral in identifying potential drug users as adults. We are also concerned about the use of marijuana in children between the ages of 11-14 due to the negative long term effects that such a drug has on mental development,” he said.
“Experts are debating whether drug use is genetic, learnt behaviour or a result of environmental factors such as family. I think it is all three. Moreover, addiction makes individuals a burden to society and in constant need of medical attention. They have a higher rate of getting into a car accident if they are driving while under the influence and usually perform weaker at school,” he added.
