England Fans Caught Smuggling Drugs Into Qatar At The World Cup Could Face The Death Penalty
6 Jun 2022
A zero tolerance policy on drugs for English football fans in Qatar has been announced.
England fans have specifically been warned about drug use in the Arab state with the possibility of the death penalty if they attempt to smuggle any into the country during the World Cup.
On the government website, it states: “There is zero tolerance for drugs-related offences. The penalties for the use of, trafficking, smuggling and possession of drugs (even residual amounts) are severe,”
“Punishment can include lengthy custodial sentences, heavy fines and deportation. Many people transit via Hamad International Airport on their way to other destinations,”
“The airport makes use of the latest security technology, all bags are scanned and transiting passengers carrying even residual amounts of drugs may be arrested,”
“If you need to bring in controlled/prescription medication into Qatar, ensure you carry your official doctor’s prescription, hospital note or a letter from your GP, detailing the drug, the quantity prescribed and dosage,”
“This note or letter should also be signed by the doctor / consultant and stamped by the hospital or surgery.”
Under Law No. 9 of 1987 on Control and Regulation of Control and Regulation of Narcotic Drugs and Dangerous Psychotropic Substances, people who smuggle drugs into the country face 20 years in prison and a fine of between 100,000 (£21,349) and 300,000 riyals (£64,047).
The more daring fans who manage to get charged for a second time may face the death penalty or life imprisonment, on top of the fines.
The National Police Chief Council’s lead for Football Policing, Chief Constable Mark Roberts, has said the UK police will be working alongside Qatari officials to thwart smugglers at the World Cup.
“Any fans seen to be misbehaving could also be subject to a football banning order on their return to the UK, as well as being arrested and potentially charged for offences committed in Qatar,” Roberts told the press.