ERBIL — A large drug field has been discovered in Baghdad, causing widespread concern about the growing drug problem in Iraq, according to Iraqi media reports.

The discovery of the field, spanning seven acres in the Madain area, highlights the increasing spread of drugs, referred to as "white poison," and the alarming rise in drug trafficking.

While the Iraqi Interior Ministry frequently announces the arrest of drug traffickers and the seizure of large quantities of drugs, the public and observers are increasingly worried about the rapid rise in drug use across the country. The recent discovery of the Datora drug field in Baghdad has particularly raised alarm due to Datora's use in producing highly toxic substances.

The issue of drug cultivation and trafficking has been escalating in Iraq. Earlier, the governor of Wasit revealed the discovery of another drug plantation, leading to public outrage. The situation worsened when Iraqi authorities arrested three municipal employees for planting hashish in public parks, indicating the troubling trend of drug cultivation within Iraq.

The spread of various drugs, including hashish, crystal meth, and others even more dangerous than heroin and cocaine, is becoming increasingly widespread in Iraq. Reports suggest that while these drugs are often trafficked from neighboring countries, the rising domestic demand has turned Iraq into not just a transit point but also a consumption hub.

Drug experts warn that this growing issue poses a severe threat to Iraqi society. According to UN reports, drug use in Iraq has surged by 30% over the past five years, with factors such as poverty, lack of border control, and inadequate governmental responses contributing to this rise.

Muna al-Amri, a social researcher, told BasNews that Iraq is facing a deepening social crisis that requires comprehensive solutions. “The increase in drug use among the youth is a dangerous sign of the social and economic deterioration in Iraq. Poverty, unemployment, and political instability are major factors driving young people to turn to drugs as an escape from their harsh realities,” she said.

Al-Amri emphasized that the recent discovery of drug cultivation in Baghdad is a clear indication that Iraq has moved from being a drug trafficking route to a site of domestic production, driven by growing internal demand. She stressed the need for Iraqi authorities to address this issue urgently.

In response to this crisis, some experts advocate for international cooperation to combat drug trafficking and production. They argue that Iraq could greatly benefit from the experience and expertise of other nations in this area. Effective coordination between Iraq and its neighboring countries is seen as a crucial step in curbing drug smuggling and trafficking.