England supporters caught with drugs at World Cup in Qatar could face the DEATH PENALTY

England fans have been warned they face a zero tolerance policy on drugs in Qatar – with some possibly facing the death penalty if they attempt to smuggle any into the country during the World Cup.

The issue of cocaine use among Three Lions supporters has been raised among authorities of late, especially in the aftermath of the unsavoury scenes at the Euro 2020 final at Wembley.

New measures have been introduced that will see football spectators convicted of selling class A drugs at matches facing a five-year ban from attending games as police aim to crack down on the problem. 

England fans will be heading to Qatar this winter to cheer on Gareth Southgate’s side

However, sanctions could be much more severe in Qatar, where repeat offenders face the death penalty for smuggling and trafficking offences.   

According to Law 9 of the 1987 on Control and Regulation of Control and Regulation of Narcotic Drugs and Dangerous Psychotropic Substances, those caught smuggling drugs into Qatar face 20 years in prison and a fine of between 100,000 (£21,349) and 300,000 riyals (£64,047). 

Those facing a charge for a second time face the death penalty or life imprisonment, as well as a fine. It is also noted that convictions outside of Qatar will be taken into account when establishing a repeat offender.

Supporters have been warned over the stringent drug laws in place in the Gulf state 

Chief Constable Mark Roberts, the National Police Chief Council’s lead for football policing, has issued a warning to fans on behaviour in Qatar. 

‘Any fans seen to be misbehaving could also be subject to a football banning order on their return to the UK, as well as being arrested and potentially charged for offences committed in Qatar,’ he told the Daily Star. 

The UK government has clear warnings on its website surrounding the issue of drugs in Qatar.

On its website, it writes: ‘There is zero tolerance for drugs-related offences. The penalties for the use of, trafficking, smuggling and possession of drugs (even residual amounts) are severe.

‘Punishment can include lengthy custodial sentences, heavy fines and deportation. Many people transit via Hamad International Airport on their way to other destinations.

‘The airport makes use of the latest security technology, all bags are scanned and transiting passengers carrying even residual amounts of drugs may be arrested.’

The Islamic country takes a zero tolerance stance against drugs within its borders