Dubai Police have escalated their public safety campaign with a stark warning regarding dangerous viral trends circulating on social media platforms. Authorities specifically identified life-threatening challenges including skull-breaking maneuvers, choking games, and breath-holding contests that have gained traction among adolescent users seeking online validation.
In an official video statement released Friday, law enforcement emphasized these reckless practices have resulted in critical injuries and fatalities internationally. The police department highlighted the particular vulnerability of teenagers who may underestimate severe consequences while pursuing excitement or social media recognition.
This advisory represents the latest in ongoing efforts to combat hazardous online behavior. The initiative follows previous warnings issued by UAE educational authorities in 2020 concerning similarly perilous TikTok trends that caused numerous adolescent injuries worldwide, including detergent consumption dares and coordinated falling pranks.
Dubai Police have implemented a dual-faceted approach: encouraging familial intervention through open conversations about digital dangers while establishing reporting mechanisms via emergency line 901 and the ‘Police Eye’ smart application service. The comprehensive strategy aims to address both peer pressure dynamics and the pursuit of online popularity that drive participation in these hazardous activities.
Law enforcement officials reiterated that parental vigilance and proactive communication remain essential safeguards against potentially fatal imitation of social media content.