KUWAIT CITY, April 4: Kuwait Police from the capital apprehended a drug peddler in possession of 49 Lyrica pills, a psychotropic substance, during a routine inspection on Al-Faihaa Road. The suspect admitted to drug trafficking and revealed that he was en route to meet another individual to conduct a sale. He was promptly handed over to the relevant authorities for further legal action. The arrest followed after patrol officers noticed the driver’s suspicious behavior and apparent disorientation, raising concerns about possible drug influence. Upon searching the vehicle, they discovered the banned pills, leading to his immediate detention.

Crackdown on Pregabalin and Gabapentin Abuse

The General Department for Drug Control had previously conducted an in-depth study on Pregabalin (Lyrica) and Gabapentin (Neurontin), highlighting their potential for misuse as alternatives to narcotics. Following the findings, a high-level meeting was convened at the Public Prosecution Office, attended by officials from:

 – Ministry of Health

 – General Department for Drug Control

 – General Department of Criminal Evidence

The study emphasized the dangers of these substances, leading to a recommendation to classify them as controlled drugs.

Legal Measures Enacted

In response, Ministerial Resolution No. (47) of 2021 was issued, adding Pregabalin and Gabapentin to Schedule (4) of Law No. (48) of 1987, which regulates psychotropic substances. The resolution took effect upon its publication in the Official Gazette (Kuwait Alyoum).

– Under the new regulations:

– Possession without a valid prescription is a criminal offense.

– Offenders face up to 5 years in prison for use.

– Drug traffickers can be sentenced to 10 years imprisonment.

This arrest underscores Kuwait’s zero-tolerance policy toward drug abuse and trafficking, reinforcing the authorities’ commitment to combatting illegal substances and protecting public health.