PHNOM PENH – Cambodian authorities have reported a significant increase in drug-related arrests in the first nine months of 2023, according to a report released by the country’s Anti-Drug Department on Sunday. The report revealed that a total of 14,722 suspects, including 331 foreigners, were apprehended during this period.
The suspects comprised mainly of drug traffickers, manufacturers, and transporters, accounting for 51 percent of the total arrests. The remaining were identified as drug users.
Authorities seized approximately 2.68 tonnes of illicit drugs and around 911 kilograms of ingredients from the suspects during the January-September period. The seized substances predominantly included ketamine, heroin, ecstasy, cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, methamphetamine pills, and cathinone.
Despite the rise in arrests, the report highlighted a decline in drug seizures compared to the same period last year. In 2022, Cambodian authorities arrested 11,431 drug suspects, confiscating a staggering 6.25 tonnes of narcotics during the first nine months.
Cambodia does not impose the death sentence for drug trafficking offenses. Under its law, individuals found guilty of trafficking more than 80 grams of illicit drugs could face life imprisonment.
(With inputs from XINHUA)
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