Drug abuse and drug situation in Hong Kong in first half of 2022
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Figures from the CRDA revealed that the total number of reported drug abusers in the first half of 2022 decreased by 24 per cent (from 3 589 to 2 742) compared with that for the same period in 2021. The number of reported young drug abusers aged under 21 also declined by 25 per cent (from 551 to 411). The three most common types of drugs abused in the first half of 2022 were heroin, cocaine and cannabis, while the three most common types among young drug abusers aged under 21 were cannabis, cocaine and ketamine (commonly known as "K"). The numbers might have been affected by the COVID-19 epidemic and the relevant measures.
According to figures from law enforcement agencies, among the young arrestees of drug offences aged under 21 in the first half of 2022, 64 per cent of them were arrested for serious drug offences, of which the proportion is higher than that of arrestees of drug offences aged above 21 by 15 percentage points. Among the young arrestees aged under 21 who were prosecuted for drug trafficking during the same period, nearly 80 per cent were convicted.
The ACAN Chairman, Dr Donald Li, said, "ACAN notices the law enforcement agencies have spared no effort in combating drug problems in order to prevent drugs from endangering the health of citizens at source. In 2021, the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) and Hong Kong Customs seized over 14 000 kilograms of drugs, representing a 150 per cent increase compared to the 2020 figure. A total of 4 438 drug cases were detected, which increased by 15 per cent compared to the level in 2020. Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies have continued to step up publicity and education so as to help the public, especially young people, to understand the dire consequences of drugs." He also pointed out that although the drug abuse and drug situation in Hong Kong is generally under control, the community must stay vigilant.
A teenager who trafficked ketamine at the age of 16 was sentenced to more than nine years in prison in May this year. Dr Li reminded teenagers not to take chances or believe in the fallacy that teenagers or students will not be held legally responsible for drug trafficking. Committing drug offences will ruin one's future prospects in life. The Narcotics Division (ND) of the Security Bureau appeals to the public not to commit drug trafficking for money. Ignorance is not an excuse to avoid the legal liability. The public must guard against claims of ways to make quick money and stay alert to jobs offering unreasonably high remuneration. The public should have full knowledge of the contents of goods before assisting in delivery.
To step up anti-drug publicity, a large-scale programme will be broadcast on TVB Jade on September 18 (Sunday) at 9.30pm. The ND will launch the brand-new anti-drug publicity and anti-drug ambassadors in the programme to promote the message of joining hands to stay away from drugs.
The website of the ND (www.nd.gov.hk) contains detailed information about drugs, including frequently asked questions about cannabis, cocaine and more. To seek information or assistance from social workers, members of the public can also make use of the instant messaging applications WhatsApp and WeChat by sending messages to 98 186 186, or call the 24-hour hotline 186 186.
The figures of the CRDA for the first half of 2022 are available on the website of the ND (www.nd.gov.hk/en/index.html).
Ends/Thursday, September 15, 2022
Issued at HKT 16:25
Issued at HKT 16:25
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