Three arrested in drug raid on farm

Dubai: The police here arrested a suspected drug dealer and two of his henchmen after a tip-off from the public which led to a successful raid on a farm in the area.

Col. Khalil Ebrahim Al Mansouri, Deputy Director of Dubai Police's Criminal Investigation Department (CID), said CID teams organise campaigns to crack down on drug peddlers in remote areas and on farms. During the campaigns, police had received a tip-off that a Pakistani farmer in Dubai was dealing in opium.

CID teams followed up on the tip-off and raided the farm where the suspect was arrested. Police found 1.5g opium in his pocket. They also discovered 1.5kg hashish as well as 1.5kg opium after searching his residence.

Police also arrested two people, an Emirati and another person who did not carry identification papers, who are suspected of dealing with the farmer.

Rehabilitation

Lt Col Khalid Al Kawwari, Director of Dubai Police's Anti-narcotics Department, said the department works hard to arrest drug peddlers. He said the department also works on rehabilitating Emirati drug addicts through a two year follow-up programme.

In the first six months, the addict is tested fortnightly to screen for drug use in the preceding week. During the same period, they attend educational courses.

Al Kawwari said the department liaises with other departments to arrange jobs for addicts who show a commitment to the programme.