Cambodian authorities recently took a significant step in the fight against illegal drugs by destroying more than seven tons of illicit drugs and their ingredients. The National Authority for Combating Drugs reported that among the destroyed items were 4.1 tons of drugs such as heroin, marijuana, methamphetamine, ecstasy, and ketamine, which had been seized from traffickers across the country. Additionally, 3.2 tons of various chemicals and other ingredients used in the production of illegal drugs were also disposed of.
Gen. Meas Virith, the secretary general of the drug-fighting agency, highlighted the estimated wholesale value of the destroyed drugs at $22.7 million, with a street value close to $70 million. He emphasized that educating the population about the dangers of illicit drugs is crucial in combating the illegal trade. Virith stated that raising awareness and providing education on the risks associated with drug use and trafficking is more effective in the long term than solely relying on enforcement measures.
Virith pointed out that focusing on drug education and prevention efforts can lead to a reduction in drug-related activities, ultimately benefiting society. He noted that in the first five months of the year, authorities in Cambodia pursued over 3,800 drug-related cases, resulting in the arrest of more than 10,000 individuals, including foreigners.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has highlighted the increasing production and trafficking of synthetic drugs, particularly methamphetamine, in Southeast Asia. The agency reported a record high in seizures of crystal methamphetamine in Cambodia, reaching over 1.4 tons in 2023. Additionally, the amount of seized heroin doubled in the same year, indicating a potential resurgence of the heroin market in the region.
Efforts to combat the illegal drug trade remain a top priority for Cambodian authorities, with a strong emphasis on education and awareness as key tools in addressing the challenges posed by illicit drugs.
