DAMMAM — Emir of Eastern Province Prince Saud Bin Naif has called upon businessmen and businesswomen to support the National Project for Protection from Drugs (Nabras) in its campaign to eradicate the dangerous social evil from the country. "The project's success will have a positive impact on present and future generations," the emir said while opening a forum to enhance public awareness on the program. Prince Saud praised the project for its efforts to protect youth from drug addiction that destroys families as well as the nation's economy. Addressing the forum, which was held at Asharqia Chamber on Monday, Prince Saud said Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Naif, deputy premier and interior minister, has expressed his confidence in Nabras. "We have to work together to make Nabras a big success," he said. Prince Saud called upon everybody to extend their moral and material support to Nabras to make the Kingdom free from drugs. "Saudi Arabia will set an example for other countries in combating drugs." Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Ahmed Al-Zahrani, director general of the Drug Combating Department, disclosed his organization's plan to establish specialized centers to treat drug addicts. "The center will be established in specific regions in the first phase," Al-Zahrani said, adding that similar centers would be set up in all regions of the Kingdom. He said attempts to smuggle drugs into the Kingdom are increasing year after year. He commended the efforts of security agencies to prevent drug trafficking. He indicated the role of social media in spreading awareness against drug abuse in the country. Abdulelah Al-Sharief, secretary-general of the National Committee to Combat Drugs and chairman of Nabras' board of directors, said he suspected a conspiracy to dump drugs in Saudi Arabia, saying the seizure of large amounts of drugs by security agencies is a clear proof of that. Speaking about Nabras, he said it has eight vital programs, which will be implemented in all parts of the Kingdom. "Our programs target children, elders and parents," Al-Sharief said. He said drug smugglers target Saudi Arabia because it is an influential political and economic power in the world. He said security and customs officers have succeeded in foiling many attempts to smuggle drugs into the country. Al-Sharief spoke about the national committee's efforts to implement Nabras with the support of individuals and institutions. The project will be implemented in its first 5-year phase with the support of Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC).
