International Narcotics Control Board hails Morocco’s anti-drug trafficking efforts

The International Narcotics Control Board has commended the sustained efforts engaged by Morocco in its fight against drugs trafficking and consumption, praising the country’s strategy focusing on prevention and treatment of addiction.

In its 2019 report, INCB says Morocco’s drugs control strategy 2019-2029 includes several measures to monitor and address health consequences related to drug use. This 10-year strategy advocates health-centered approaches to assist persons who abuse drugs.

In 2018, Morocco seized more than 45 million tablets of tramadol and nearly 72 tons of cannabis resin, as well as of 252 tons of majoun, a consumable product consisting mostly of cannabis but that can also include other drugs, along with poppy seeds and other foodstuff, adds the document.

In June 2019, Moroccan authorities seized 12 tons of cannabis and 800 kg of cannabis resin. Another operation carried out two weeks later led to the seizure of 600 kg of cannabis found in sewage pipes, says the Board, citing the seizure of more than a million MDMA tablets in the North African Kingdom.

In its report, INCB, an independent body established by international drug control treaties, focuses on improving prevention and treatment services for young people.

The Board’s 2019 report calls for the respect of human rights in the elaboration and implementation of drug control policy. It stresses the need of reducing demand for narcotics, curbing supply, focusing efforts on treatment, education, aftercare, rehabilitation and social reintegration.

While demand reduction and supply reduction constitute two fundamental pillars of drug control policy, the Board also encourages the international community to take a balanced approach to countering drug use and dependence through the adoption of measures intended to reduce the associated negative public health consequences.