A 'morphine mafia' involving doctors and other officials including 'well-known personalities' may be operating in Bahrain, a report said.

 As a result, police are stepping up investigations into the misuse of painkillers and sedatives, according to the report in the Gulf Daily News, our sister publication.

Interior Minister Lieutenant-General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa issued an order on May 8 to set up a probe committee to inquire into the use of painkillers in the health sector.

It was revealed that 300,000 morphine injections had been given at Salmaniya Medical Complex, compared to only 3,000 at the BDF Hospital.

Public Security Chief Major-General Tariq Al Hassan yesterday (May 14) appealed to the media to deal with the panel "responsibly".

He said the issue would require thorough investigation and urged the public to report any irregularities to the head of the probe committee.

Meanwhile, an across-the-board parliamentary probe committee could also be set up to investigate irregularities relating to painkillers. Al Asala MP Shaikh Abdulhalim Murad said that his bloc is co-ordinating the move with other parliamentary groups.

The National Unity Assembly also called on authorities to tighten control over drugs.

Politburo and public relations chief Salem Rajab urged the Health Ministry to launch an official inquiry. – TradeArabia News Service