Abu Dhabi drug, cyber crimes decline among juveniles

The number of criminal offences related to drugs or cyber crimes declined by more than half this year in the capital.

ABU DHABI // The number of drug-related and cyber crime offences committed by juveniles fell by more than half this year in Abu Dhabi.

During the first 10 months of this year, there was a 54 per cent drop compared to the same period in 2014, said Mohammed Al Dhanhani, head of family prosecution at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department.

“We reached out to 3,000 students last year and we made them aware possible slips and breaches of the law they could commit in everyday life,” said Mr Al Dhanhani.

“For example, we told them if you send a text message insulting your friend, you could be prosecuted under the cyber crime law.”

Similarly, the consequences of taking drugs or dealing or possessing them were highlighted by various methods.

The family prosecution service continued in its efforts to spread awareness among children and teenagers through school visits, exhibitions, short films, media and social media campaigns and live events.

“And we will continue through that path, especially since we are seeing productive results,” added Mr Al Dhanhani.