On Friday 4th June 2021 across the centres of Dawat-e-Islami in the Midlands UK, a targeted approach was carried out via the Friday sermon speeches to raise awareness about a serious issue that is facing our local communities: county lines and drug runners.

The congregation in attendance were made aware of how young vulnerable children are exploited and forced to store/transport drugs to other areas within cities.

Children as young as 8 years old are being approached to carry drugs by criminals. The monumental consequences on young children and their families – which entail long-term implications were discussed. Harrowing true-life accounts were mentioned to the congregation.

Several points from the Holy Quran and sayings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was discussed, such as a keynote saying; ‘Allah is always watching’. In order to stay off the radar, criminals are using young children for their work. They forget to realise that they may stay out of the authorities’ radar, but Allah is always watching them.

Towards the end of the speeches, several signs were mentioned to make parents and guardians aware of what they need to look out for in their children who may be involved in these types of crimes and how to save their children from such disturbing criminal activities.