29-07-2025
Dhofar hosts awareness event on drug use, online blackmail
Salalah: A community awareness event held in Salalah on Monday brought together healthcare professionals, law enforcement officers, and the public to discuss the growing dangers of drug addiction and cybercrime.
Organised by the Omani Women's Association in Salalah, in cooperation with the Directorate General of Health Services in Dhofar and the Royal Oman Police (ROP), the event, 'Breaking the Chains: Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery for All."
Dr Hossam Fattouh, Head of Awqad Health Centre, described addiction as a chronic illness that alters brain function and behaviour, requiring comprehensive medical and psychological care.
'Addiction doesn't happen overnight,' Dr Fattouh said. 'It develops in stages – starting with habituation, then building tolerance, and eventually leading to full dependency on the substance.'
He noted that addiction can stem from a wide range of substances – including illegal drugs, synthetic compounds, and even prescription medications when misused.
Warning signs, he said, include sudden behavioural changes, poor academic or work performance, mood instability, social withdrawal, neglect of appearance, new associations with questionable peers, and unusual financial behaviour.
Dr Fattouh expressed concern about the rising misuse of prescription sedatives, such as benzodiazepines, calling for strict adherence to medical instructions and cautioning against altering dosages without consulting a doctor.
He stressed that prevention begins at home, through open communication between parents and children, setting positive examples, and building trust.
'Recovery is possible,' he added, 'but it requires a clear treatment plan, psychological support, and long-term follow-up. Family and community support are essential to lasting recovery.'
The second session was delivered by Major Engineer Ahmed bin Awadh Al-Mashikhi, Deputy Director of Criminal Investigations at the ROP in Dhofar, who addressed the escalating threat of online blackmail.
Al-Mashikhi outlined the types and legal definitions of cybercrime under Omani law, explaining how perpetrators exploit personal data to extort victims.
He described the emotional toll such crimes take on victims and detailed practical steps individuals can take to protect their privacy online.'People must be cautious about the information they share on digital platforms,' he said. 'Recognising the early signs of blackmail and reporting incidents to the authorities can prevent greater harm.'
He concluded by walking attendees through ROP's procedures for handling cybercrime complaints, encouraging the public to report incidents without delay and to trust the police's capacity to act swiftly and confidentially.
The awareness programme comes amid broader efforts to promote public safety and well-being in Dhofar, particularly during the busy Khareef season, when thousands of visitors arrive in Salalah. Organisers hope the event will spark meaningful conversations within families and communities about early prevention, mental health, and digital security.
