Marib Governorate marked the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on Wednesday with a public awareness event organized by the province's Drug Control Department. The event, held under the theme "The Evidence is Clear: Let's Invest in Prevention," aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of community-wide efforts to combat this scourge.

Ali Al-Fatemi, the Deputy Governor of Marib, emphasized the critical need for increased awareness and action to combat drug abuse, which he described as a threat that aims to destroy societies and their potential.

"Drug abuse is a looming danger that requires significant efforts and collaborative programs involving all government and non-governmental entities, including security agencies, educational and health institutions, civil society organizations, and other relevant stakeholders," Al-Fatemi stated during the event. He commended the security forces in Marib for their success in seizing numerous drug shipments destined for the Houthi militia.

Al-Fatemi stressed the importance of redoubling efforts and enhancing capabilities to achieve greater success and effectively combat drug abuse, ultimately protecting the youth and society from its devastating effects.

A security report released by the internationally recognized Yemeni government's Ministry of Interior in May 2024 revealed that Marib province had the highest number of drug seizures in the past three years, with illicit substances being smuggled by criminal gangs to the Houthis in Sana'a.

The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking observed annually on June 26, is a United Nations-designated day dedicated to raising awareness about the global drug problem and promoting action to address it.