Dubai Police to launch videocast with heartbreaking stories, awareness on substance abuse

Al Etihad

5 days ago

23 July 2025 16:00
DUBAI (ALETIHAD)The Dubai Police's Security Awareness Department at the General Department of Community Happiness, in collaboration with the General Department of Anti-Narcotics, is set to launch the first episode of its new videocast - 'Recovered' (Mut'aafi) - on Thursday.The initiative aims to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and psychoactive substances, highlighting their devastating effects on families and society, and the irreversible consequences that can range from imprisonment to the tragic loss of life due to overdose.Presented by Mahra Al Marzouqi, the inaugural episode features a deeply emotional interview with a grieving father who lost his son to a drug overdose. Through a raw and heartfelt account, he describes how substance abuse turned their lives into a nightmare, recalling the moment he laid his son to rest and saying, 'I couldn't believe I was burying my own child.' His story is a powerful call to action, urging families to stay vigilant and protect their loved ones.
Real Stories, Real WarningsDr. Colonel Saud Al Rumaithi, Deputy Director of the General Department of Community Happiness, emphasised that 'Recovered' is a human-centred awareness project that delves into real stories of suffering caused by drug abuse. The videocast aims to steer individuals away from the dark path of addiction, and inspire a sense of social responsibility. He noted that the series will present both tragic outcomes and journeys of recovery, highlighting the importance of Article 89 of the Federal Decree Law on Combating Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances. The law offers individuals battling addiction a legal avenue for treatment without prosecution—an opportunity for healing and hope.Colonel Al Rumaithi reaffirmed that the initiative reflects Dubai Police's ongoing commitment to leveraging innovative media tools in its mission to strengthen public awareness and build a safer, more informed society.Host Mahra Al Marzouqi described the opening episode, titled 'A Cry of Pain and a Wakeup Call', as an emotional and cautionary tale. It recounts the life of a young man who fell into addiction due to negative influences and the devastating impact his overdose had on his family.His father, known in the episode as Abu Omar to protect the family's privacy, delivers a heartfelt message to other parents: stay alert, stay involved, and protect your children from the dangers of drugs and harmful company.The episode offers moments of deep emotional reflection and carries essential messages for every household. Al Marzouqi expressed her hope that the videocast will contribute to raising awareness, encouraging those struggling with addiction to seek help before it's too late.
Follow the SeriesAll episodes of the 'Recovered' videocast will be available on Dubai Police's official YouTube channel and across social media platforms.