The role of the Israeli occupation in facilitating the spread of modern narcotics in Ramallah Governorate from the perspective of Palestinian police officers: A field study

Abstract

This study investigates the role of the Israeli occupation in facilitating the proliferation of modern synthetic drugs in the Ramallah Governorate. It aims to identify the security and legal challenges facing Palestinian police officers in combating this phenomenon and to assess its social implications. Adopting a descriptive-analytical approach, the researchers conducted a comprehensive census of the specialized police personnel (Anti-Narcotics, Investigation, and Criminal Evidence departments) in Ramallah. A total of (66) valid questionnaires were analyzed. The findings reveal a "very high" prevalence of chemically synthesized drugs, specifically "Hydro" and "Captagon," within the governorate. Statistical analysis (using One-Sample T-Test) confirmed a significant correlation between occupation policies and the spread of these substances. The study indicates that areas classified as "C" have evolved into safe havens for drug production and trafficking due to the deliberate security vacuum. Furthermore, the possession of "Israeli ID" cards by dealers was identified as a major legal impediment to Palestinian prosecution. The research concludes that this phenomenon poses a direct threat to family security and civil peace. Key recommendations include documenting the occupation's complicity for international advocacy, establishing specialized units to detect local chemical laboratories, and enacting deterrent legislation for cross-border drug crimes