Between January 2–14, police apprehended 682 suspects involved in 290 drug crimes nationwide, according to the Ministry of Interior spokesperson Touch Sokhak.

The arrests targeted individuals engaged in drug dealing and narcotics use.

"The crackdown on drug crimes showcases our commitment to fulfilling the roles, duties and orders of the National Police, police chiefs in the capital and provinces and commune police nationwide. Minister of Interior Sar Sokha introduced this initiative as one of six priority targets when he took on the role," Sokhak said.

Priority targets encompass narcotics issues, general criminal offenses, gang activity, traffic accidents, human trafficking and border concerns.

Additionally, a significant drug bust occurred on January 8 in O'Taloem, Anglong Svay village, Preah Romkel commune, Borei O'Svay Sen Chey district, Stung Treng province, bordering Preah Vihear province.

Authorities seized 160 packets of methamphetamine, weighing nearly 160kg, and a makeshift truck. Despite these actions, two suspects managed to escape and are currently at large.

Am Sam Ath, operations director of rights group LICADHO, stated his concern about the current drug issues in Cambodia. He noted the potential impact on human resources and national development, particularly in the future, stating that over 50 per cent of incarcerated individuals were involved in drug dealings. 

"When we look at the figures for drug-related arrests, we notice an increase in effectiveness. Despite these actions, the issue remains a concern for Cambodia, impacting security, safety and prison overcrowding, with the number of victims steadily rising," he said.

Recognising a rising risk of drug crimes, the government initiated the ninth campaign against such offenses, running throughout 2024, aiming to protect and prevent people from becoming victims to these perils.