(Phnom Penh): Cambodia recorded significant declines in both drug-related arrests and narcotics seizures during the first five months of 2026, according to a report released by the Anti-Drug Department (ADP) on Monday (Jun. 1).

Authorities arrested 7,127 suspects in drug-related cases between January and May, a 32 percent decrease from 10,487 arrests during the same period last year. Among those detained were 225 foreign nationals from 12 countries.

The report said law enforcement agencies confiscated approximately 1.01 tonnes of illicit drugs, along with 8.5 kilograms of opium and 9.4 kilograms of dried cannabis between January 1 and May 31.

Drug seizures also fell markedly compared to the same period in 2025, when authorities seized 1.78 tonnes of narcotics.

The confiscated substances included ketamine, ecstasy, heroin, crystal methamphetamine, methamphetamine pills, cocaine, and cathinone, among other illicit drugs.

Despite the decline in arrests and seizures, authorities continue to intensify efforts to combat drug trafficking and distribution networks across the country.
=FRESH NEWS