The Ras Al Khaimah police have blocked 22 websites involved in promoting banned narcotics in the first six months of the year.

Colonel Adnan Ali Al Zaabi, Director General of the Anti-Narcotics Department, said that they keep a tab on drug traffickers and their illegal practices and plans.

"All the websites that promote drugs are being monitored round-the-clock," he said. "Most of these portals are hosted in countries where there is no ban on trafficking in these substances."

The RAK police have launched specialised electronic patrols to detect any suspicious practices or violations, mainly for promoting and peddling narcotic drugs, he added.

The internet has turned the world into a small village where one can buy and sell anything by just a click, he explained.

"The e-patrols, headed by Lt. Hazzaa Al Shamsi, have blocked 22 'narco' websites and many other social media accounts run abroad. This has been done in collaboration with the telecommunication regulatory authority here."

These illegal web portals not only promote and sell drugs, but also teach young people how to use and get narcotics, Col Zaabi warned. "Our youth can be easily misled by these websites and fall into drug addiction."

Calling for public cooperation, he asked the people to report any suspicious websites involved in promoting illegal practices. "The RAK police shall intensify inspection raids and clamp down on those criminals."

Studies show that young people aged 14-20 are not well aware of the consequences of addiction to drugs - some of which are affordable and easily accessible - and hence they fall prey to drug dealers, Col Zaabi pointed out.

"Heroin abuse, for example, is associated with serious health conditions - like spontaneous abortion, and infectious diseases including AIDS and hepatitis. Opium can lead to lung cancer, heightened anxiety, weight loss, mental deterioration, potential death, and a host of other health, emotional and social problems."

Parents are advised to keep an eye on their children and protect them against narcotics, Col Zaabi underlined.

"It is not only the responsibility of law enforcement bodies to curb drugs. All members of the society should also realize their role in combating the drug menace."

Source: Khaleej Times