Cambodia Urges Enhanced Intelligence Gathering to Combat Narcotics

In Cambodia, the intensification of crimes such as narcotics, juvenile delinquency, gambling, and theft is increasingly burdening citizens' lives. In response, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sar Sokha, on July 7, at the plenary meeting summarizing the work achievements of the 5th mandate Commune/Sangkat Councils, directed police forces nationwide to enhance intelligence operations against suspected offenders. Sar Sokha urged authorities at all levels to increase cooperation and information sharing to prevent and eradicate these issues causing suffering to the public. He particularly emphasized that investigations into drug-related suspects should proceed without any hesitation. The Deputy Prime Minister noted that the drug problem is becoming increasingly complex and widespread, and despite recent strong crackdowns by authorities, its momentum has not abated. During the first eight months of 2026, Cambodian authorities arrested 19,652 suspected drug offenders in 7,347 cases. According to the report, 49.5% of those arrested were classified as traffickers, manufacturers, possessors, or transporters, while 50.5% were identified as drug users. Alongside these arrests, authorities seized a total of 2.65 tons of narcotics and 282 kilograms of dried cannabis. The majority of the seized drugs included ketamine, ecstasy, heroin, methamphetamine (ice), and cocaine. Source: Koh Santepheap Khmer