On February 25, 2025, the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) conducted a major anti-drug operation, leading to the arrest of two Singaporean men and the seizure of a large assortment of illegal substances. The estimated street value of the confiscated drugs exceeded SGD 135,000, and the amount seized was enough to sustain approximately 490 drug users for a week.
The operation took place late at night in the Redhill Road area. CNB officers detained two suspects who were standing beside a car. The first suspect, a 37-year-old man, was then escorted to his nearby residential unit, where officers conducted a thorough search. The search resulted in the discovery of a substantial quantity of drugs, including 1,890g of cannabis, 139g of ketamine, 102g of methamphetamine (commonly known as ‘Ice’), 69g of cocaine, 93g of ‘Ecstasy’, 408 Erimin-5 tablets, 188 LSD stamps, 49 bottles of GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate), and 36 vape devices suspected to contain THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).
Simultaneously, officers also searched the car driven by the second suspect, a 44-year-old man. Inside the vehicle, they found approximately 901g of cannabis, 50g of ‘Ice’, 16g of ketamine, 10g of ‘Ecstasy’, one Erimin-5 tablet, and four vape devices believed to contain THC.
The operation resulted in the seizure of a wide range of drugs, many of which are known for their severe addictive properties and harmful effects. Cannabis, which was found in the largest quantities, remains classified as a controlled drug in Singapore. Other substances, such as ‘Ice’, ketamine, cocaine, and GHB, are commonly abused for their stimulant or sedative effects, while LSD and Erimin-5 tablets are known for their hallucinogenic and depressant properties, respectively.
Under Singapore’s strict anti-drug laws, drug trafficking carries severe penalties. Section 5 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1973 makes it illegal for any person to traffic, offer to traffic, or prepare for the trafficking of controlled drugs. The law applies whether the trafficking is conducted within Singapore or on behalf of someone outside the country.
If convicted of trafficking more than 500g of cannabis, a person may face the mandatory death penalty. This underscores Singapore’s zero-tolerance approach to drug-related crimes, which is aimed at preventing drug abuse and its associated social harms.
The CNB has confirmed that investigations into the drug activities of both arrested individuals are still ongoing. Authorities are working to determine the full extent of their involvement and whether they were part of a larger drug distribution network.
Singapore has one of the strictest drug enforcement policies in the world, with harsh penalties for both consumption and trafficking. The latest drug bust highlights the CNB’s relentless efforts in combating drug-related activities and preventing illicit substances from reaching the streets. The agency has repeatedly emphasized that drug abuse not only ruins lives but also has far-reaching consequences for families and communities.
With the rise of drug trafficking methods and the increasing availability of synthetic drugs, the authorities continue to adapt their enforcement strategies. CNB has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious drug-related activities.
This case serves as yet another reminder of the serious legal consequences of drug trafficking in Singapore. Despite international debates on drug decriminalization, Singapore remains firm on its stance, maintaining stringent enforcement measures to safeguard public safety and security. As investigations proceed, the two arrested individuals face severe charges that could lead to life imprisonment or even capital punishment if found guilty.
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