Rise in young drug abusers arrested in 2025, including a 12-year-old: CNB

Drug abuse trends are shifting, with a notable increase in female arrests, even as overall enforcement efforts yield significant results. Recent data reveals a complex situation involving rising global drug production and the exploitation of digital platforms by criminal syndicates.

Rising Female Involvement in Drug Abuse

The number of female drug abusers arrested rose by 24 percent, from 478 in 2024 to 594 in 2025. While the majority of those arrested for drug abuse in 2025 – 81 percent – were male, the proportion of female abusers increased from 15 percent in 2024 to 19 percent in 2025. Of the 1,165 new drug abusers arrested last year, 295, or approximately 25 percent, were female.

Did You Know? A record 236 tons of methamphetamine were seized in East and Southeast Asia in 2024.

Global Drug Trafficking Trends

Authorities have warned that the global drug situation is deteriorating, with increased production and trafficking. Transnational syndicates are increasingly leveraging digital technology platforms and payment systems to facilitate drug trafficking and money laundering across international borders. This trend presents new challenges for law enforcement.

Enforcement Efforts and Seizures

In 2025, 25 drug syndicates were dismantled, including those utilizing the Telegram platform and operating from overseas locations. Drug seizures in 2025 had an estimated market value of approximately S$21.95 million (US$17.35 million). Southeast Asia collectively seized 94 percent of the 236 tons of methamphetamine seized in East and Southeast Asia in 2024, according to the 2025 World Drug Report.

Expert Insight: The increasing reliance on digital platforms by drug trafficking organizations highlights the need for international cooperation and the development of sophisticated investigative techniques to counter these evolving threats.

“Drug abuse impacts lives far beyond the abuser’s,” stated Mr. Tan. “Families and loved ones often silently suffer the emotional, financial, and physical turmoil of drug abuse.” He further emphasized, “We cannot risk drug abuse becoming normalised in our community. CNB, working closely with our partners, will continue our efforts to keep Singapore safe and drug-free through robust law enforcement, community engagement, and education on the harms of drugs.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of drug abusers arrested in 2025 were male?

81 percent of drug abusers arrested in 2025 were male.

How many drug syndicates were dismantled in 2025?

25 drug syndicates were dismantled in 2025.

What was the estimated market value of drug seizures in 2025?

The estimated market value of drug seizures in 2025 was approximately S$21.95 million (US$17.35 million).

As global drug trafficking networks adapt and evolve, what role do you believe community-based prevention programmes can play in addressing the root causes of drug abuse?