RIYADH, June 24: With dozens of drug related executions within the first six months of this year in Saudi Arabia, the kingdom is embarking on a campaign to combat the spread of drugs.

Drug addiction is a growing problem in the Saudi society, especially among its young people, it is commonly believed here. Many drug smugglers try to capitalise on the market, even risking their lives. Saudi Arabia puts drug traffickers, as well as murderers and rapists, to death by public beheading.

A National Committee for Combating Drugs and a fund to help drug addicts and their families is now being set up in the country. This was announced on the occasion of the international day for combating drugs which will be observed on Monday.