Cambodian authorities significantly stepped up their fight against illegal drugs in 2025, handling more than 10,700 drug-related cases and arresting nearly 28,000 suspects, according to a senior official overseeing national anti-narcotics operations.
Nationwide Cooperation Strengthens Drug Enforcement
Speaking at the annual conference of the National Authority for Combating Drugs (NACD), Secretary-General Meas Vyrith highlighted the coordinated efforts between law enforcement agencies and international partners to disrupt drug trafficking networks operating in and around Cambodia.
The conference, held at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel, reviewed the country’s anti-drug operations in 2025 while outlining priorities for 2026.
According to the official figures, authorities investigated 10,743 drug-related cases in 2025, leading to the arrest of 27,884 individuals. These numbers show a slight increase compared with 2024, when 10,630 cases were reported and 27,071 suspects were detained.
The rise represents an increase of 113 cases, or 1.06 percent, while the number of suspects climbed by 813 individuals—approximately 3 percent year-on-year.
Large Drug Seizures Recorded Despite Overall Decline
Although enforcement activities increased, the total volume of confiscated narcotics dropped significantly.
Authorities seized 5.897 tonnes of illegal drugs in 2025, a steep decline from 14.909 tonnes seized in 2024. This represents a decrease of 9.012 tonnes, or about 60 percent, suggesting possible shifts in trafficking patterns or improved disruption of supply chains before distribution.
Cannabis Eradication and Seizures Continue
Law enforcement agencies also intensified their efforts to eliminate illegal cannabis cultivation across the country.
In 2025, authorities destroyed 12,212 cannabis plants, down from 17,785 plants eradicated in 2024, marking a reduction of 5,573 plants.
However, while fewer plants were destroyed, seizures of processed or dried cannabis increased sharply. Officials reported confiscating 525 kilograms of dried cannabis, a significant jump from 142 kilograms seized the previous year.
Sharp Rise in Seized Chemical Precursors
One of the most notable developments in 2025 was the dramatic increase in seized chemical precursors, substances used in the manufacturing of synthetic drugs.
Authorities confiscated 42.814 tonnes of these chemicals, compared with just 354 kilograms in 2024. Officials said this spike highlights ongoing efforts to target drug production networks before narcotics reach the market.
Administrative Measures Expanded
Beyond arrests and seizures, Cambodian authorities also strengthened administrative and preventative actions aimed at reducing drug-related activities.
In 2025, officials carried out 14,946 administrative actions, a sharp increase from 1,092 actions in 2024.
These measures included the closure of 12 businesses, such as guesthouses and karaoke venues suspected of being linked to drug activities.
At the same time, authorities conducted 14,194 inspections and outreach visits to various establishments, including:
- Hotels
- Rental properties
- Bars
- Karaoke venues
- Nightclubs
The visits were designed not only to monitor compliance but also to raise awareness about drug-related risks and regulations.
Community Engagement and Drug Testing
Authorities also worked to strengthen community engagement with business owners and the public.
Throughout 2025, officials organized 740 meetings with business operators, attended by 34,707 participants, including 17,257 women. These sessions focused on education, prevention strategies, and cooperation with law enforcement.
In addition, authorities carried out rapid urine drug tests targeting individuals suspected of drug use. A total of 1,163 testing operations were conducted, covering 13,796 people. Of those tested, 1,510 individuals returned positive results, officials reported.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Officials from the National Authority for Combating Drugs said the results demonstrate Cambodia’s ongoing commitment to tackling drug trafficking and abuse through a combination of law enforcement, international cooperation, administrative action, and public awareness programs.
The 2026 strategy will continue focusing on dismantling organized trafficking networks, preventing drug production, and strengthening partnerships with both local communities and international agencies.