In response to the escalating challenge of drug trafficking, security forces in the Kurdistan Region have launched a series of inspections at shisha lounges and cafes in Erbil, with a specific focus on the potential use of illicit drugs in conjunction with hookah tobacco. These efforts aim to curb the spread of narcotics within the region.

Teams composed of medical and narcotics experts carried out inspections on Friday night, testing samples of the molasses used in shisha at various establishments. Although no illegal substances have been discovered in the tested ingredients thus far, further samples will be analyzed at the Medical Quality Control labs in the city. As part of the investigation, urine samples were also collected from waiters and hookah servers to determine possible narcotics use among the staff.

The pursuit of illicit drugs is driven by the Kurdistan Region's and Iraq's mounting battle against drug trafficking. Over the past five months, security forces have made 320 arrests of drug traffickers and successfully seized 50 kg of illicit drugs. The ongoing effort to disrupt the dangerous trafficking network involves regular drug confiscations and the apprehension of traffickers at border crossings and major cities.

Highlighting the severity of the situation, last year Iraqi forces intercepted a glider carrying one million Captagon pills—an amphetamine-like stimulant—allegedly destined for a neighboring country, which was flown through Iraqi airspace. Captagon pills are among the most frequently trafficked drugs in Iraq, with many believed to originate from war-torn Syria. While the consumption of Captagon pills may induce mild euphoria, it also poses numerous health risks, including increased blood pressure, hallucinations, blurred vision, and withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and fatigue.

The security forces' proactive measures in inspecting shisha lounges and cafes signify a determination to combat drug trafficking in the Kurdistan Region. By targeting potential sources of narcotics use, authorities aim to safeguard the well-being of the population and maintain security within the region. The investigations will continue, bolstering efforts to dismantle the trafficking network and prevent the proliferation of illicit drugs.

By Kobin Ferhad