Dubai Police have arrested 15 individuals—ten men and five women—for their involvement in a drug trafficking network that promoted narcotics disguised as candy to young people on social media platforms. The group was caught with 50kg of drugs and 1,100 drug-laced sweets, with an estimated street value of Dh2 million.
The announcement came during a press conference held at Dubai Festival City as part of the UAE’s broader anti-drug awareness efforts marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Brigadier General Dr Abdul Rahman Sharaf Al-Maamari, Director of the International Protection Centre at the General Department of Narcotics Control, said the suspects were operating from outside the country but were apprehended in coordination with various authorities.
“These were a variety of sweets that contained narcotic substances,” Al-Maamari explained. “They were marketed on social media, clearly targeting the youth.”
He added that individuals now spend an average of seven hours a day online, significantly increasing exposure to illegal content and criminal activities. “Regardless of this case or others, we must continue to strengthen awareness efforts,” he stated. “Families play a central role in educating their children about online dangers, especially related to drugs.”
Al-Maamari stressed that while law enforcement monitors internet activity, parental involvement is essential. “We call on families to monitor browsing habits, received messages, and any suspicious deliveries. Protecting our youth is a shared responsibility,” he said.
In response to the growing threat, Dubai Police have expanded their awareness programmes, targeting students, parents, and workers. This year alone, they reached 270,000 school students and 20,000 university students. “We expanded our awareness efforts to four major exhibitions instead of one,” Al-Maamari noted.
Summer training workshops are also held to educate youth on cybercrime, bullying, and digital conduct. Over 1,300 students participated in sessions across 26 centres this year.
Police urged the public to report suspicious activity via the 901 call centre, Police Eye app, or the e-crime platform. Al-Maamari assured that confidentiality is guaranteed. “Young people must feel safe reporting threats,” he said.
He also highlighted Article 89 of the UAE’s Anti-Narcotics Law, which allows individuals to seek treatment without facing legal consequences. “Our goal is protection, not punishment,” he added.
By analysing criminal trends, Dubai Police aim to act proactively. “We don’t wait for crises. We monitor data, develop campaigns, and act early,” Al-Maamari concluded.