PHNOM PENH: A seven-point strategy was unveiled as part of the government’s fifth campaign to combat illegal drugs this year.
According to the Phnom Penh Post, the strategy came in the wake of reports that drug trafficking has increased in the country.
Illegal production, trafficking and dealing in drugs in the region had increased, with the highest growth seen in drug imports along the borders, through airports and through the post.
“Given this context, the government has decided to introduce a new seven-point strategy in the fifth campaign,” it said
Among the initiatives include education and dissemination of the law and the negative consequences of drugs on civilians, civil servants and the armed forces.
The National Authority for Combating Drugs (NACD) will encourage the private sector and donors to take part in supporting the national movement to combat drugs and drug-related crimes.
“We will crack down on drug dealing and use at clubs, secret locations as well as drug-processing facilities and take tougher action to eliminate the market for drugs.
The NACD has taken steps to crack down on drugs near the border areas and speed up procedures to deal with exhibits and properties relating to the crime.
“It has seized items and property related to drug activity and is tracking down drug lords and their contacts.
“NACD also plans to expand community-based drug rehabilitation and treatment at targeted communes and has encouraged the construction of the national centre for voluntary treatment services.
“It has continued to build makeshift centres for treatment and rehabilitation in the capital and provinces.
“NACD has set up mechanisms to monitor drug use, where data will be better used to inform the anti-drug plan.”
The measures were introduced after the government announced that the crackdown on drugs last year was more efficient than the year before and had reduced criminal offences such as theft, murder, rape and snatch thefts.
Last year saw 9,806 drug cases completed, an increase of more than 22 per cent.
A total of 20,490 suspects were detained — an increase of more than 24 per cent — and 750kg of drugs seized, an increase of nearly 34 per cent, compared with 2018.