In a major scientific milestone, the Chemistry Laboratory at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has discovered a previously unknown synthetic narcotic substance and registered it internationally under the name “Abu Dhabi Judicial Department Laboratory.”
This marks the first time a new narcotic has been officially documented and recognised globally by any entity.
The newly identified compound ‘ADB-4C-MDMB-BINACA’ belongs to the synthetic cannabinoid category. The substance has now been added to the international database in the Netherlands, reinforcing the UAE’s global leadership in forensic science and proactive drug detection.
This achievement was made possible through advanced analytical techniques employed at the ADJD’s Center for Forensic and Electronic Sciences, showcasing the department’s high-level scientific capabilities and commitment to public safety.
Counsellor Yousef Saeed Al Abri, Undersecretary of the ADJD, stated that the discovery reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and the continuous push for innovation and excellence in the justice system.
He also credited the directives of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, for fostering scientific advancement within the department.
“This discovery is an extension of the lab’s ongoing efforts and builds on previous successes in detecting synthetic cannabinoids,” Al Abri noted. “It highlights the expertise and readiness of our forensic team, and their vital role in enhancing community safety through scientific innovation.”
The ADJD collaborated with the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE) in the United States, one of the world’s foremost authorities in synthetic drug identification, to validate the properties of the substance before its registration and publication.
Counsellor Al Abri said that the registration of this new narcotic is a testament to the accuracy, credibility, and international standing of the ADJD chemistry lab. “This milestone cements our position as a scientific reference point in forensic testing and demonstrates our commitment to combating narcotics on a global scale,” he added.
