First Deputy Prime Minister: Combating Drugs Takes Priority in the Interior Ministry's Agenda
The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, announced on Wednesday the thwarting of the largest drug seizure in the history of the State of Kuwait, involving approximately five tons of raw “Larica” powder and nearly four million ready-to-sell capsules, with an estimated total market value of around 150 million Kuwaiti dinars (approximately $485.9 million).
This announcement came during a speech delivered by Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef while presiding over and attending the closing ceremony of the comprehensive national media awareness campaign for drug abuse prevention, titled “A Nation That Protects You,” organized by the Ministry of Social Affairs at the Four Seasons Hotel, with participation from various government, civil society, and private entities.
Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef stated that the seizure, which took place on Tuesday, also included a fully integrated factory for producing the psychoactive substance “Larica,” along with equipment for filling and packaging capsules. He emphasized that this reflects the scale of the threat neutralized by the vigilance of anti-drug officers and the security efforts undertaken to combat this scourge.
He added that the campaign was not merely an awareness activity but a sincere national message underscoring that Kuwaiti citizens are a trust and their protection is everyone’s responsibility. He clarified that the danger of drugs does not affect only individuals but threatens families, society, and the nation’s future.
He affirmed that combating drug abuse is a top priority for the Ministry of Interior, which continues to confront smugglers and traffickers, tighten control and seizure measures, and dry up the sources of this scourge, alongside enhancing prevention and awareness programs, based on the conviction that protecting children begins before drugs reach them.
He stressed the importance of partnership and coordination among all relevant entities, highlighting the pivotal role of the Ministry of Health in treating and rehabilitating individuals recovering from addiction, the contribution of the Ministry of Social Affairs in supporting families, raising awareness among parents, and strengthening social protection, as well as the efforts of other government ministries and institutions.
Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef clarified that the fight against drugs is not limited to seizing narcotics and pursuing smugglers and traffickers, but also includes treatment and rehabilitation as essential components. He emphasized that those who fall into addiction require a genuine opportunity to return to their lives, families, and communities.
He noted that a fully integrated wing for treating and rehabilitating female addicts has been established, representing one of the most modern facilities equipped to provide necessary care using advanced therapeutic and rehabilitative methods. Additionally, other comprehensive and specialized sites for treating and rehabilitating male addicts are currently being prepared, which will enhance the treatment system and expand its capacity to accommodate more cases.
He explained that the objective is not only to prevent drugs from reaching members of society but also to save those who have fallen victim to them, helping them recover and return to society as healthy and productive individuals.
Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef called on parents to take the initiative and not hesitate to seek help and treatment when needed. He pointed out that the state has provided treatment pathways that ensure confidentiality and privacy, and that, in accordance with legal procedures and regulations, seeking treatment does not result in a criminal record for the user.
He affirmed that the Ministry of Interior, in cooperation with all state institutions, will continue its resolute efforts to combat the drug scourge, pursue smugglers and traffickers, dry up its sources, and raise awareness of its dangers. He stressed that confronting this issue is a shared national responsibility aimed at protecting children and safeguarding Kuwait’s security and stability.
