Abu Dhabi Police respond to viral rumours of 'red pills' in schools and universities on social media

Abu Dhabi Police have firmly dismissed circulating social media rumours about so-called “red pills” being distributed in schools and universities, reinforcing the importance of verified information and community vigilance. The denial comes as authorities continue to strengthen digital and physical security awareness across the UAE.

Rumours proven false by Abu Dhabi Police
Brigadier Taher Gharib Al Dhaheri, Director of the Anti-Narcotics Directorate at the Abu Dhabi Police General Command, confirmed that reports of red pills in educational institutions are entirely baseless, according to Emarat Al Youm. He stated, “With the start of every school year, rumors and false news spread on social media claiming that red pills are spreading in schools. I emphasize the inaccuracy of these claims and reassure parents and members of the public that such pills are not present in our schools or universities.”

Al Dhaheri further highlighted the broader context, noting, “Thanks to the support of its wise leadership, the UAE has attained a significant global standing. It is only natural that it has many enemies, and there are electronic committees that promote such lies to destabilize public opinion.” He emphasized the critical need to rely on official sources, adding that Abu Dhabi Police maintain transparency and trust in their public engagement and “never hide anything” from the community.

Ongoing awareness campaigns

Abu Dhabi Police maintain a continuous presence in schools, universities, and community spaces, engaging with students, parents, and other stakeholders to raise awareness on a wide range of issues—from crime prevention and digital safety to substance abuse and child protection. These programmes regularly involve visits to campuses, community councils, and public forums, emphasizing practical guidance on safeguarding personal, financial, and social wellbeing.

An example of such efforts is the ongoing sixth edition of the “Be Cautious” campaign, a three-month initiative organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior , other police departments, the UAE Cybersecurity Council , Abu Dhabi Media , First Abu Dhabi Bank , and Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank . The campaign highlights emerging online fraud methods, such as phishing links, misleading phone calls, fake prize notifications, and fraudulent e-commerce sites, while also reinforcing broader messages of vigilance and responsible behaviour in everyday life.
Events and educational programmes are conducted across social and traditional media, community councils, universities, and schools, ensuring that all segments of society are informed. Brigadier Al Dhaheri emphasized stakeholder collaboration as a key factor in maximizing outreach and public impact.

UAE media law and regulation
The handling of such rumours is supported by the Federal Decree-Law No. 55 of 2023 on Media Regulation , which organizes the media activities of individuals, organizations, media outlets, and free zones dedicated to media in the UAE. According to the decree:

• Media activities include radio, television, cinema, publications, digital and electronic media, imaging activities, and book fairs.
  
• Both individuals and legal entities can own media outlets under specified regulations.
  
• Media authorities, including the UAE Media Council and local regulators, oversee compliance.
  
  

Crucially, the law prohibits:

• Disseminating information that may harm national unity or social cohesion, incite violence, or propagate discord
  
• Publishing or circulating false, misleading, or crime-instigating content
  
  

Violations can result in administrative fines, closure of the media institution, or cancellation of media licenses, underscoring the UAE’s zero-tolerance approach to misinformation.

Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combatting Rumors and Cybercrimes, along with other applicable laws protecting privacy, reputation, and preventing defamation, also apply to social media use. Citizens and residents in the UAE need to be aware of the provisions of these laws, which clearly spell out actions that could constitute a criminal offence.

Protecting youth: UAE’s vigilance against hidden substance threats

The “red pills” rumours are particularly alarming because adolescents and young adults are at a stage of exploration and identity formation, which can increase their vulnerability to substance use. However, the UAE maintains some of the world’s strictest anti-drug laws, ensuring that such threats are promptly addressed. Authorities are calling on families, schools, and universities to strengthen cooperation in protecting youth from such hidden dangers. Parents are urged to pay attention to where their children go, who they befriend, and what they bring home.

Recent investigations have uncovered sophisticated new tactics used by drug traffickers to smuggle toxic substances into the local market, employing methods so deceptive that the items appear harmless to the unsuspecting eye. Officials report that traffickers are increasingly camouflaging these substances as everyday products that young people often use or consume, such as energy drinks, chewing gum, or even flavoured paper, highlighting the importance of vigilance and community awareness.