KUWAIT CITY, Oct 26: Kuwait's counter-drug efforts have resulted in a remarkable 90 percent reduction in drug trafficking into the country this year, compared to the same period last year, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah announced on Saturday.

Speaking at the inauguration of the newly renovated 10th Ward at the Addiction Treatment Center, Sheikh Fahad said the Interior Ministry has waged an all-out war on drug dealers who threaten Kuwaiti society. The event, which marked the completion of the center’s expansion funded by Kuwait Finance House (KFH), also saw the minister unveil plans for a tougher anti-drug law currently being drafted by the government.

The proposed law will introduce severe penalties, including the death penalty for convicted drug dealers, Sheikh Fahad revealed, stressing that the move would significantly enhance societal security and public safety.

"The government's new legislation will represent a major leap in the fight against drugs and will fortify our nation’s security and stability," Sheikh Fahad said. He expressed gratitude to the General Department for Drug Control for its tireless work in thwarting smuggling attempts and dismantling drug trafficking networks.

Kuwait's commitment to fighting drug abuse and supporting recovery efforts was highlighted during the ceremony. Sheikh Fahad proudly mentioned that the country’s success in combating drugs and rehabilitating addicts is the result of close collaboration between state security and health institutions.

In recognition of its achievements, the Ministry of Interior received two prestigious awards from the Council of Arab Interior Ministers for its efforts in drug control. These awards were presented during a ceremony at the Council’s headquarters in Tunisia, underscoring Kuwait’s leadership in regional and international efforts to combat drug control.

The minister also took the opportunity to thank Kuwaiti parents, teachers, and public sector employees for their continued support in reporting addiction cases and assisting in national rehabilitation initiatives.

The inauguration of the 10th Ward, which is part of Kuwait’s broader efforts to combat addiction, was a clear message of the country’s dedication to tackling the drug problem from both a prevention and treatment perspective. Sheikh Fahad’s remarks underscored the importance of ongoing collaboration between the public and private sectors in Kuwait’s fight against drugs.