Babylon authorities conduct random drug tests at cafes using rapid screening devices

BABYLON, Iraq — Authorities in Babylon province have launched random drug tests at cafes and other public spaces, using rapid screening devices that produce results in about 20 seconds, a local anti-narcotics official said. The inspections, carried out as part of activities marking World Anti-Drug Week, are being conducted by the Babylon Directorate for Drugs and Psychotropic Substances after obtaining judicial authorization, according to the directorate's media spokesman, Ahmed Sa'dun. He said the directorate's Intelligence Unit is participating alongside the Babylon Health Directorate and Rapid Response Units, and described the work as part of a broader anti-drug plan. Sa'dun said teams in the field are conducting random tests on citizens and, in addition to the inspections, providing public information about the harmful effects of drug use. The directorate also promoted the 911 emergency hotline for reporting drug use, trade or distribution, and said all submissions will be kept confidential. Hasan Adnan, a cafe owner, said the inspections create a safer environment for customers and reduce disturbances caused by some drug users. He said cafe operators support continuing and expanding such checks, particularly as a way to protect young people from the dangers of narcotics.