Babil authorities launch awareness campaign ahead of International Day Against Drug Abuse

BABIL, Iraq — The Directorate of Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances in Iraq's Babil province has launched a motorized awareness tour and field activities across the city ahead of the United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse. Ahmed Saadun, the directorate's media officer, said the tour and events were carried out with the participation of Interior Ministry units operating in the province. Posters and banners highlighting the harmful effects of drugs on individuals and society were displayed in public areas, he said. Saadun added that the campaign also promoted the 911 rapid-response hotline, which residents can use to confidentially report drug trafficking and use. The directorate has been running preventive awareness tours in several parts of the city, particularly aimed at young people. The activities are part of a broader awareness program planned to coincide with the International Day Against Drug Abuse, with officials stating the initiative aims to strengthen public understanding of the issue.