‘Highest punishment for drug trafficking is death sentence’

“Article 43 of the amended law states that drug abusers can receive up to three years imprisonment, a maximum fine of RO3,000 or death sentence,“ Col Abdulrahim bin Qasim al Farsi, Director General for Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances in ROP, said.

He added, “Under Article 66, the court can order an expatriate convicted of drug related crimes, to be deported, besides cancellation of visa and employment in Oman.”

Col Farsi said, “According to Article 64, any person concealing information on or access to the drugs’ consignment from concerned authorities will be jailed between six months and three years and imposed a fine of minimum RO100 but not more than RO1,000.”

As per amendments to the Law of Combating Drugs and Psychotropic Substances promulgated by Royal Decree 34/2015, drug abusers can avoid prosecution if they seek treatment at a rehabilitation centre, provided they are not caught red-handed and no criminal suit is already filed against them. Rehabilitation can either be sought by the addict or on the request of spouse or kin.

Col Farsi has also advised those getting medicines from abroad to keep prescription with them at all times to avoid legal consequences.

The ROP is also planning to conduct awareness campaigns against drug abuse across the sultanate. It will be also be organising de-addiction programmes.