The anti-narcotics forces in the Kurdistan Region have made significant strides in combating drug trafficking, with over 940 individuals involved in the illicit drug trade being arrested since January this year, according to official figures released by the Kurdistan Region's Directorate of Combatting Narcotics.

The arrests made by the security forces targeted both drug dealers and consumers, including those involved in the distribution of methamphetamine. The figures revealed that 80 percent of the apprehended individuals were between the ages of 18 and 35, while four percent were under the age of 18.

During the period from January to May 2024, the security forces confiscated a total of 49 kilograms of various types of narcotics. As part of their efforts, the security forces have implemented stringent measures at border crossings and urban centers. Recently, a targeted operation was carried out in cafés and restaurants in the capital city of Erbil, where samples of hookah tobacco were collected to investigate the presence of illicit drugs.

To tackle the escalating issue of drug abuse, the Kurdish anti-drugs authority has undertaken several awareness-raising initiatives and media campaigns throughout the Kurdistan Region. Arkan Bibani, an officer at the directorate, emphasized the effectiveness of apprehending drug traffickers in the fight against narcotics.

Both Iraqi and Kurdish officials regularly announce the confiscation of illegal drugs and the arrest of individuals involved in drug trafficking. Among the various drugs seized, Captagon pills, a type of amphetamine-like stimulant, are prevalent in Iraq. It is believed that a significant portion of these low-cost drugs originates from war-torn Syria.

In a notable incident last year, Iraqi forces intercepted a glider carrying one million Captagon pills that was attempting to fly through Iraqi airspace to a neighboring country. The pills were seized in Basra, underscoring the ongoing challenges posed by drug trafficking.

The use of Captagon pills induces a mild euphoria in users but can lead to various health problems, including high blood pressure, hallucinations, blurred vision, irritability, and fatigue as common withdrawal symptoms.

On June 26, the United Nations observes the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, highlighting the dangers associated with illicit drugs and promoting strategies to combat this crisis. The ongoing efforts by the Kurdistan Region's anti-narcotics forces in arresting traffickers and raising awareness align with the global initiative to address the pressing issue of drug abuse and illicit drug trade.