The arrest came as part of the ongoing efforts exerted by the Public Security Sector, in coordination with security directorates and relevant security bodies, to hunt down drug dealers and combat narcotics trafficking and distribution.

The security forces arrested 38 criminals in 10 governorates: Aswan, Dakahlia, Qena, Giza, Beni Suef, Beheira, Gharbia, Luxor, South Sinai, and Ismailia.

The criminals had more than 77 kilograms of opium poppy, 54 kilograms of cannabis, 12 kilograms of poppy seeds (opium), 10 kilograms of heroin, and various quantities of cocaine drugs, in addition to 2,200 narcotic pills and numerous types of firearms.

Legal measures were taken against them, and the Public Prosecution was notified to launch a probe.

In October, the Egyptian authorities thwarted a major drug smuggling attempt, seizing 3.5 tons of narcotics valued at EGP 250 million.

During the first eight months of 2024, over 107,000 persons sought help through the Egyptian Fund for Drug Control and Treatment of Addiction (FDCTA) hotline, receiving free and confidential treatment.

The majority of callers sought counselling, rehabilitation, and reintegration services, according to Minister of Social Solidarity and Chairwoman of the National Fund for Drug Control and Treatment of Addiction Maya Morsy.

FDCTA reported a significant decline in drug abuse rates in Egypt from 2015 to 2020.

In 2022, FDCTA Director and Assistant Minister of Social Solidarity Amr Osman said a survey conducted by the fund identified several reasons for drug abuse, including peer pressure (35.2 percent), stress (34.8 percent), depression (30.6 percent), the need to work longer hours (29.1 percent), and a desire for increased confidence (24.9 percent).