Public Security Chief inaugurates workshop on 2nd edition of national anti-drug plan

Manama, Feb. 13 (BNA): Chief of Public Security, Lt-General Tariq Al Hassan, has inaugurated a virtual workshop on the drafting of the second edition of the National Plan for Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances by the General Directorate of Criminal Investigation and Forensic Science. The event attracted 35 representatives of ministries, authorities and organisations, along with concerned Interior Ministry directorates. The second edition is a continuation of the first one that achieved 97% of its goals. The Public Security Chief asserted the security accomplishments of unprecedented crime reduction. He said that Bahrain is on the right track, valuing the support and directives of Interior Minister, General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, in enhancing security performance, professionalism and crime-fighting efforts. He said that building on success leads to more successes and gives more hope for achieving the second edition of the plan. He said that drug-fighting is a community responsibility and a security work, therefore Bahrain has been known for working through an organised system, plans and mechanisms with integrated security, community, media and regional and international cooperation. He said that Bahrain is the first Arab country that drafts and works within a comprehensive anti-drug national plan as highlighted by the United Nations Office Against Drug and Crimes. The Public Security Chief explained that the previous plan included two main dimensions: the reduction of demand and support and strategic goals. He said that to get ready for the second plan, there is a need to study the accomplishments and develop goals. He revealed that according to the classification of the United Nations, Bahrain is a transit point and isn't a production and consumption centre when compared with the spread of narcotics in the world. He expressed appreciation for the efforts of all partners and hailed public awareness in addressing the issue. Meanwhile, the Director-General of Criminal Investigation and Forensic Science highlighted the phases and results of the first edition of the plan launched in 2015. He said that the second plan is being drafted by a Bahraini team of Interior Ministry affiliates.