𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐫𝐮𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐕𝐢𝐠𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐢- 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬

…𝑹𝑩𝑷, 𝒓𝒆𝒈𝒖𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒆𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑯𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒕𝒉 𝑴𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒚 𝒋𝒐𝒊𝒏 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒅𝒓𝒖𝒈 𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒂𝒄𝒆

By Kezang Choden

Recent data from the Royal Bhutan Police (RBP) reveals the crucial role of multiple checkpoints and specialized divisions in preventing drug trafficking activities. These measures have not only disrupted numerous smuggling operations but also significantly reduced the flow of illicit substances into the country.

Notably, out of the fourteen divisions across fourteen dzongkhags covering the eastern, western, southern and central parts of the country, Division Number Eleven in Thimphu has witnessed a substantial surge in numbers over the past four years. In 2020, there were 242 cases, 153 in 2021, 2022 saw 333, by 2023, the record skyrocketed to 732 and 219 cases were reported this year alone from January till May 9 totaling 1,679 cases from 2020 to as on May 9, 2024. This surge marks the highest increase among all divisions, signaling noteworthy growth and development in the region.

Division Number Three in Phuentsholing under Chhukha dzongkhag has risen to prominence as the second-highest area for trafficker arrests in recent years. In 2020, authorities detained 52 traffickers in this division, 20 in 2021, 99 casses in the year 2022, 2023 had 539 cases, and 168 till May 9, this year, contributing to a total of 878 traffickers apprehended over the same period.

Meanwhile, Division Seven in Trongsa has the fewest trafficking cases, with a total of 22 from 2020 to as on May 9, 2024, followed by Division Thirteen (Bumthang) and Division Fourteen (Tashiyangtse) with 23 cases each over the same period.

Deputy Chief of Police, Colonel Passang Dorji said “The escalation in numbers could indicate improved surveillance, enhanced policing strategies, or a concerning uptick in trafficking activities. Authorities are actively investigating the underlying causes of this trend and are introducing more stringent measures to combat trafficking.”

Colonel Passang Dorji announced increased efforts to curb drug trafficking across the country. The RBP is deploying various divisions to travel from dzongkhag to dzongkhag, conducting awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public on the dangers and consequences of drug trafficking. “We are seeing the highest number of individuals involved in drug trafficking cases falling within the 18 to 45 age group. We noted that many of these individuals are employed in blue-collar jobs and turn to drug trafficking due to financial difficulties,” said Colonel Passang Dorji.

The RBP is meticulous in keeping records of all seized drugs, a practice that aids in tracking and understanding trafficking patterns. By maintaining these records, the police hope to better strategize their operations and ultimately reduce the prevalence of drug-related crimes. A significant focus of these awareness campaigns is on school-going children. By targeting the youth, the RBP aims to prevent the onset of drug abuse and trafficking from an early age, promoting a healthier and safer future for Bhutan.

The Ministry of Health (MoH) has sounded the alarm regarding the growing involvement of youth in drug abuse. The Bhutan Food and Drug Regulatory Authority (BFADRA) has reported a significant increase in the misuse of pharmaceuticals among young individuals. In response, BFADRA is intensifying its regulatory efforts to ensure stringent oversight of all drugs. Collaborating closely with the Royal Bhutan Police, authorities are taking decisive steps to combat drug trafficking and abuse. A key strategy in this fight is the strong relationship BFADRA and RBP have forged with cross-border enforcement agencies.

These international partnerships have bolstered information sharing and improved the efficiency of investigations, resulting in successful crackdowns on drug trafficking networks. According to the latest data from BFADRA, pharmaceuticals are the most commonly abused substances. BFADRA urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to drug trafficking or abuse. Both MOH and RPB are committed to addressing this urgent issue, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and implementing stronger preventive measures to safeguard Bhutanese youth from the hazards of drug abuse and trafficking.

“In a determined effort to eradicate drug abuse and trafficking in Bhutan, the BFADRA and RBP have announced plans to intensify public awareness campaigns. The initiative aims to educate the public and work towards achieving zero drug abuse and trafficking in the country,” said the Superintendent.