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RBP calls for public support to fight against drugs
Although the number of drug-related arrests has slightly decreased in 2024, with 3,319 individuals apprehended compared to 3,667 in 2023, substance abuse remains the leading crime in Bhutan. The Royal Bhutan Police (RBP) has emphasized the need for robust measures and public cooperation to tackle this persistent issue
In 2024, the RBP recorded 1,512 cases of substance abuse offenses, totaling 1,814 cases. While the number of repeat offenders dropped to 330 from 475 in 2023, convictions also decreased, with 229 individuals convicted in 2024 compared to 295 in the previous year.
RBP highlighted that repeat offenders are often traffickers, while abusers are referred to the Substance Use Disorder (SUD) program for treatment. With the PEMA Secretariat’s initiatives, prison-based SUD treatment is now available. However, the number of individuals referred for SUD treatment has declined from 3,077 in 2023 to 2,578 in 2024. Abusers are given three chances; upon their fourth arrest, serious actions, including potential conviction, will be taken.
Gender wise, 2024 saw 3,153 males and 166 females arrested, compared to 3,441 males and 226 females in 2023.
In terms of occupation, the highest number of arrests in both years came from the unemployed sector. In 2024, 1,326 unemployed individuals were arrested, compared to 1,460 in 2023. Private employees followed, with 620 arrests in 2024, up from 585 the previous year. Students accounted for 445 arrests in 2024, a slight decrease from 471 in 2023.
The Superintendent of Police, Narcotic Drug and other Vices Division (NDOVD), is urging the public to support efforts in tackling substance abuse, particularly among youths.
He said, “Abusers could be anyone – someone you love, a friend, or a family member. Many people hesitate to get involved, thinking it’s a police matter, but in our case, it’s different. We assure full confidentiality and no involvement of the informer during the investigation or in court proceedings.”
“It is simple. Inform us, and we’ll handle the rest. Our priority is the correction of abusers, and intervention at the right time before addiction takes hold,” he added.
He emphasized the importance of early intervention, stating that many youths start using substances due to peer pressure or the pursuit of pleasure.
“But by the time addiction sets in, it’s often too late. If we can prevent the spread of drugs by arresting traffickers with the help of the public, it will drastically reduce the reach of these harmful substances,” he added.
Individuals arrested for substance abuse will be educated on the consequences and impacts of their actions.
“Our goal is to intervene early and help them make a positive change. So far, all our actions have been based on our own initiatives and information from our own informers. No other person has come forward to report cases yet.”
NDOVD is also offering rewards for information that leads to the seizure of significant quantities of drugs, with no risk to the informer. RBP is focusing on educating those arrested about the consequences of substance abuse and aims to intervene early to help individuals make positive changes.
Substance use by age group show concerning trends. In 2024, individuals below 18 years old accounted for 343 arrests, a slight decrease from 356 in 2023. Those aged 18 to 24 years saw 1,406 arrests in 2024, compared to 1,548 the previous year. Among individuals aged 25 and above, 1,570 were arrested in 2024, compared to 1,763 in 2023.
The most commonly abused substances include SP Plus, cannabis products such as hashish and leaves, and solvents, which continue to be the primary substances seized in arrests.
RBP shared that they have approached the court to establish an additional bench specifically for drug-related cases, aiming to ease the buildup and speed up case proceedings. They are hopeful for a positive response to this request.
In a move to support those affected by substance abuse, particularly students, the government is working on establishing a specialized school at Yongphula. This institution will cater to both abusers and traffickers, ensuring that they can continue their education while receiving treatment for substance use. The initiative is part of a broader effort for long-term reintegration of individuals into society post-recovery.
RBP has plans to install drug-checking machines at checkpoints to detect any form of drugs entering the country. However, the high cost of these machines with a limited budget, presents a significant challenge.
Meanwhile, RBP is actively taking measures to combat substance abuse, including regular patrolling in hotspot areas, conducting highway checks, and increasing awareness.
Additionally, they are strengthening cross-border coordination with Indian counterparts. Field drug divisions are being established, and efforts include random drug testing.
In alignment with the nation’s commitment to fighting substance abuse, the government, RBP, and other agencies are working in line with His Majesty The King’s address during the 115th National Day, which highlighted the seriousness of the situation and the need for a unified approach.
However, RBP shared that without public support, efforts to curb substance abuse will not be effective.
