Dubai Customs commenced on Wednesday February 26, 2014, an awareness campaign on the misuse of cold weapons at Al Warqa'a Fourth. The 3-day campaign is in line with DC’s CSR initiatives and efforts to reduce the occurrence of crimes in which cold weapons are used.
Khalil Saqer, Director of Corporate Communication Department at Dubai Customs, pinpointed that the campaign stems from DC’s key mission to be the first line of defence for the community. He added that the campaign is launched to complement the efforts exerted by DC to prevent smuggling of different types of cold weapons in order to reduce human losses resulting from the injuries inflicted by such weapons; particularly, during the violent quarrels taking place among teenagers and youngsters.
He stated:” The campaign’s activities include arranging trips for private and public school students to the campaign site and briefing them on the awareness campaign and its goals. They will receive brochures about what cold weapons refer to, the difference between cold and fire arms and how they are internationally prohibited to carry around in public locations, such as airports, courts, schools and streets in general”.
Mr. Khalil added that Dubai Customs cracks down on smuggling of such weapons. In 2013, 936 pieces of cold weapons were seized at Dubai Airports, while 1960 pieces were seized in two shipments at Jebel Ali Customs Centre. Seizures included knives, swords and "Ring Box" pieces.