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Rise in number of drug abusers in 2011
Posted: 03 February 2012 1555 hrs
SINGAPORE: The number of drug abusers arrested in 2011 rose 13 per cent compared to the year before.
Some 3,300 drug abusers were taken into custody compared to the nearly 2,900 people arrested in 2010.
The Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) said this is due to intensified enforcement efforts.
While the number of new abusers arrested has dropped, those below the age of 20 has increased.
Heroin and methamphetamine remain the most commonly abused drugs with more than 90 per cent of all drug abusers arrested abused using either of the drugs.
On the supply front, CNB intensified enforcement against drug syndicates and checks at the checkpoints resulting in more drugs seized.
The estimated value of drugs seized in 2011 amounted to S$16 million, 54 per cent higher than the value of drugs seized in 2010.
In particular, CNB seized 14 kg of crystal methamphetamine ('Ice') in 2011 which is the highest ever recorded in CNB's history.
CNB said it will continue to intensify its enforcement efforts to tackle both the supply and demand dimension of the drug problem.
It's also working closely with the Task Force on Drugs led by Minister-of-State (Home Affairs) Masagos Zulkifli, to ensure that drug control measures remain relevant and effective in a changing landscape.
- CNA/cc
