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Dubai, UAE

How to get information about a friend taken by the Narcotics Department in Dubai?

Hi,

My friend has been taken by the Narcotics Department for the consumption and possession of some substance in Dubai.

How can we find out what the next procedure will be, as his family back in India has no information about it and no idea where the police have taken him or what the next steps are in this issue?

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Rashid Khalil Obaid Advocates and Legal Consultancy
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15 Apr 2025, 06:02

Hello,

Once the police investigation is complete, the case will be referred to the Public Prosecution. The Public Prosecutor will review the evidence and decide whether to file criminal charges.

The charges will depend on the type and quantity of the substance, and whether it's considered consumption, possession for personal use, or possession with intent to distribute (which carries much harsher penalties).

It's highly likely that your friend will remain in detention throughout the investigation and the Public Prosecution phase.

If you need further assistance or clarification, kindly share your WhatsApp number.

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Fawzia Mohammad Lawyers & Legal Consultancy
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15 Apr 2025, 06:12

Hello dear,

I hope you are doing well.

Thank you for reaching out!

Regarding your friend's situation, if he has been taken by the narcotics department in Dubai for possession or consumption of a substance, the case is likely under criminal investigation and handled by the Anti-Narcotics Department.

In such cases, the next steps usually involve:

- Initial investigation and detention at the police station.

- Referral to the Public Prosecution, where charges are reviewed.

- If charges are filed, the case is transferred to the Criminal Court.

We can assist in locating your friend, checking the case status, and guiding the legal process. His family in India can appoint a lawyer here to represent him and get updates.

Please contact us on WhatsApp at [-----------] or by email at [-----------] so we can help further.

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London Center for Legal Consultancy Office
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15 Apr 2025, 06:16

According to UAE law, a person arrested for possession or consumption of banned substances is referred to the Public Prosecution and then to the court.

Penalties may include imprisonment, fines, or deportation, depending on the quantity and circumstances.

Our legal center specializes in such cases and can assist you in locating the person and following up on the legal procedures.

You can contact us on WhatsApp for legal support and further assistance.

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Future Vision Advocates Legal Consultancy
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15 Apr 2025, 07:36

Dear Inquirer,

Thank you for reaching out!

In cases involving narcotics in Dubai, the person is usually held by the Anti-Narcotics Department for investigation, and the matter is then referred to the Public Prosecution. During this time, access to information may be limited, especially for those outside the UAE.

To take the proper legal steps, including locating your friend, understanding the charges, and assisting with representation, you will need to appoint a lawyer officially in the UAE.

We recommend booking a consultation with us so we can assist you promptly and begin the necessary procedures.

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Dar Al Haqooq Legal Consultancy
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15 Apr 2025, 07:47

Dear Client,

Thank you for reaching out regarding your friend’s detention by the Dubai Narcotics Department for alleged possession and consumption of prohibited substances.

I understand the concern of his family back in India, especially since they have no information about his whereabouts or the next steps. Below, I outline the legal procedures and steps to address this situation effectively.

1. Legal Procedures Following Detention:

In Dubai, cases involving narcotics are handled with strict adherence to Federal Decree-Law No. 30/2021 on Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances. Here is an overview of the process:

a. Initial Detention:

Upon arrest, the individual is typically held at a local police station for up to 48 hours before being referred to Public Prosecution.

During this period, police may conduct initial investigations and take statements.

b. Public Prosecution Inquiry:

Within 24 hours of referral, Public Prosecution will question the accused and decide whether to proceed with formal charges or release them.

If charges are filed, the prosecutor may extend detention for up to 14 days for further investigation, with renewable 30-day extensions as needed.

c. Trial Preparation:

If sufficient evidence exists, the case will proceed to court. Penalties for drug possession or consumption can range from imprisonment (minimum three months) to fines (AED 20,000 – 100,000), depending on the substance and circumstances.

d. Communication Rights:

Detainees are allowed local telephone calls during detention, though these may be monitored. Families can inquire about their status through legal representatives or consulates.

2. Steps to Locate Your Friend:

To determine your friend’s whereabouts and gather more information:

a. Contact Dubai Police:

Visit the Dubai Police website or call their helpline to inquire about your friend’s status using his full name and passport details.

b. Engage a Lawyer: Appoint a lawyer specializing in narcotics cases in Dubai to liaise with authorities and obtain case details.

c. Consular Support: The Indian Consulate in Dubai can assist in locating your friend and ensuring he receives legal representation.

3. Legal Representation:

Given the severity of narcotics-related offenses in the UAE, it is crucial to appoint a qualified lawyer experienced in drug cases. A lawyer can:

- Represent your friend during investigations and court proceedings.

- Ensure all legal rights are upheld.

- Negotiate for rehabilitation instead of imprisonment if applicable (Article 45 of UAE Drugs Law allows courts discretion for first-time offenders).

4. How We Can Assist:

Our team offers professional services tailored to such situations:

a. Case Investigation: We can liaise with Dubai Police and Public Prosecution to determine your friend’s status and charges.

b. Legal Representation: Our experienced lawyers will represent your friend throughout the legal process, advocating for fair treatment and exploring options like rehabilitation programs.

c. Consular Coordination: We can coordinate with the Indian Consulate to ensure timely updates and support for his family.

5. Next Steps To proceed:

- Share your friend’s full name, passport details, and any information about his arrest.

- Let us know if immediate legal assistance is required to locate him or represent him during investigations.

We are committed to ensuring this matter is handled professionally while protecting your friend’s rights under UAE law.

Please feel free to contact me directly if you have any questions or require further assistance.

Sincerely,

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Hend Humaid Alnuaimi Advocates & Legal Consultants
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16 Apr 2025, 06:37

Hello,

When a person is arrested by the narcotics department in Dubai for possession or consumption of illegal substances, their family and friends must understand the legal protocols involved, including immediate detention, potential lack of notification due to privacy laws, the importance of securing legal representation, and the subsequent investigation, charges, court proceedings, and potential sentencing based on the severity of the case.

Families should contact local authorities and the Indian embassy for assistance, while also hiring local counsel to navigate the situation efficiently and stay informed on developments.

Prompt action is essential for managing the implications of such an arrest.

Please contact us via phone or email for further assistance.

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Khalid Alsarookh Advocates and Legal Consultants
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16 Apr 2025, 08:57

Hello,

In drug-related cases like this, Dubai Police may detain a person for up to 30 days before transferring the matter to the Public Prosecution.

If charges relate to consumption or possession, penalties can include jail, fines, or deportation, depending on evidence such as test results or seized substances.

Without legal representation, bail is unlikely, especially when the family is overseas and unaware of the process.

We regularly assist families in locating detainees, checking their legal status, and representing them before police and prosecution. We also handle urgent cases without requiring travel to the UAE.

You can reach me directly at [-----------] (WhatsApp) or email us at [----------] for a confidential consultation.

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