Abu Dhabi, June 25 (IANS/WAM) In an effort to control and prevent circulation of narcotics in the Gulf region, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has stepped up efforts to increase vigilance at its border entry points.

On the eve of World Anti-Narcotics Day, which will be observed June 26, UAE's ministry of interior has said there is an utmost need to protect the "family" and the "community" from drugs through a comprehensive awareness programme.

The motto for this year is "My family is my happiness - No to drugs", Khamis Saif bin Sowaif, director general of criminal security at the ministry, said.

The ministry will focus on two main areas - stepping up inspection at the border points, and to reduce demand by making drug consumers aware of the dangers of narcotic consumption, he said.

He said the main responsibility lies with parents, who have to keep their children away from the potential risks of drugs, and this can be achieved through strengthening religious and moral values.

Families should also monitor their children's conduct to detect early any changes in their behaviour due to the effect of narcotics.