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Singapore Law Watch
16-05-2025
- Health
- Singapore Law Watch
S'pore must be wary of synthetic drugs amid worst overdose epidemic in history: Veteran journalist
S'pore must be wary of synthetic drugs amid worst overdose epidemic in history: Veteran journalist Source: Straits Times Article Date: 16 May 2025 Author: Andrew Wong British journalist Ioan Grillo has reported on the drug scene from Mexico for more than two decades. Synthetic drugs like fentanyl have become so potent that illegal drug producers are intentionally weakening the dosage to prevent the drugs from killing their customers, said a veteran British journalist. Englishman Ioan Grillo has reported on the drug scene from Mexico for more than two decades and is in Singapore to speak at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Forum Against Drugs, which takes place at Furama RiverFront Hotel from May 15 to 17. Used as a painkiller, fentanyl – a Class A controlled drug in Singapore – is estimated to be up to 100 times more potent than morphine. It killed 76,000 people in the US in 2023, and 48,422 in 2024. In his opening address at the forum, Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam said the threat of synthetic drugs is coming closer to home, after reports emerged in March that Malaysia had found traces of fentanyl in its sewage systems. Tapping his experiences with drug cartels in Mexico, Mr Grillo said fentanyl has killed so many people that it is actually bad business for drug sellers. He said: 'Because you're killing off your customers. So they're trying to find ways to mix it up with other drugs or tranquillisers.' Mr Grillo said that 20 years ago, he would be able to have a conversation with a drug user or addict. But the effects of synthetic drugs are more pronounced, such that he can barely make sense of his conversations with drug users today. He said: 'The addicts today are completely zombified, and an incredible number of people are dying from these drugs. This may be the worst overdose epidemic in history.' He added that modern synthetic drugs could be manufactured so purely that the doses are exponentially higher than that of drugs in the past. Speaking to The Straits Times on May 14, Mr Grillo said the revolution towards synthetic drugs has surfaced in Asia and will pose a bigger problem than traditional plant-based drugs, like cannabis. He said: 'If you look at it – the biggest problem in Asia is methamphetamine, and it is a synthetic drug. (Suppliers) have found big markets in the Philippines, in Malaysia, and it's the biggest problem in Singapore.' Annual statistics from the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) show that methamphetamine was the most commonly abused drug in Singapore in 2024. In its 2024 report, the United Nations-backed International Narcotics Control Board said a rapid expansion of synthetic drugs is becoming a global public health threat. These drugs, which are cheaper to make, mean greater profits for producers and traffickers. In 2021, CNB uncovered the first known attempt to traffic fentanyl in its pure form into Singapore after seizing 200 vials containing about 20mg of the opioid in a scanned package from Vietnam. To solve the global drug problem, former White House Office of National Drug Control Policy adviser Kevin Sabet said governments should tackle drug problems on the local level first. Mr Sabet, a drug policy scholar, will also speak at the Asia-Pacific Forum Against Drugs. He told ST that in Singapore's case, deterrence in the form of strict drug legislation seems to be working. But he warned that the global consensus against drug abuse has been challenged in recent years by those who lobby for legislative changes and softer attitudes towards narcotics. Said Mr Sabet: 'One of the things I'm extremely worried about is the movement to legalise drugs. It's coming from a multibillion-dollar movement that is very smart, calculated, and running in non-governmental organisations around the world.' He pointed out that a key goal for the movement is to break the global consensus against drug abuse and argued that countries cannot lose sight of the need to work together. He cited Thailand's experience with decriminalising the recreational use of cannabis in 2022, before reversing its decision after a public backlash. Mr Sabet said the movement targeted Thailand, arguing that cannabis could be used for medicinal purposes and somehow convincing the authorities to go ahead with the move. He said countries should not be swayed by such rhetoric. Said Mr Sabet: 'Instead, focus on a comprehensive approach and see prevention and recovery as your North Star. 'And do not succumb to those who tell us that we can simplify our way out of the drug problem by making drugs safer to use, or encouraging even more drug use.' Source: The Straits Times © SPH Media Limited. Permission required for reproduction. Print
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
S'pore must be wary of synthetic drugs amid worst overdose epidemic in history: Veteran journalist
SINGAPORE - Synthetic drugs like fentanyl have become so potent that illegal drug producers are intentionally weakening the dosage to prevent the drugs from killing their customers, said a veteran British journalist. Englishman Ioan Grillo has reported on the drug scene from Mexico for more than two decades and is in Singapore to speak at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Forum Against Drugs, which takes place at Furama RiverFront Hotel from May 15 to 17. Used as a painkiller, fentanyl – a Class A controlled drug in Singapore – is estimated to be up to 100 times more potent than morphine. It killed 76,000 people in the US in 2023, and 48,422 in 2024. In his opening address at the forum, Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam said the threat of synthetic drugs is coming closer to home, after reports emerged in March that Malaysia had found traces of fentanyl in its sewage systems. Tapping his experiences with drug cartels in Mexico, Mr Grillo said fentanyl has killed so many people that it is actually bad business for drug sellers. He said: 'Because you're killing off your customers. So they're trying to find ways to mix it up with other drugs or tranquillisers.' Mr Grillo said that 20 years ago, he would be able to have a conversation with a drug user or addict. But the effects of synthetic drugs are more pronounced, such that he can barely make sense of his conversations with drug users today. He said: 'The addicts today are completely zombified, and an incredible number of people are dying from these drugs. This may be the worst overdose epidemic in history.' He added that modern synthetic drugs could be manufactured so purely that the doses are exponentially higher than that of drugs in the past. Speaking to The Straits Times on May 14, Mr Grillo said the revolution towards synthetic drugs has surfaced in Asia and will pose a bigger problem than traditional plant-based drugs, like cannabis. He said: 'If you look at it – the biggest problem in Asia is methamphetamine, and it is a synthetic drug. (Suppliers) have found big markets in the Philippines, in Malaysia, and it's the biggest problem in Singapore.' Annual statistics from the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) show that methamphetamine was the most commonly abused drug in Singapore in 2024. In its 2024 report, the United Nations-backed International Narcotics Control Board said a rapid expansion of synthetic drugs is becoming a global public health threat. These drugs, which are cheaper to make, mean greater profits for producers and traffickers. In 2021, CNB uncovered the first known attempt to traffic fentanyl in its pure form into Singapore after seizing 200 vials containing about 20mg of the opioid in a scanned package from Vietnam. To solve the global drug problem, former White House Office of National Drug Control Policy adviser Kevin Sabet said governments should tackle drug problems on the local level first. Mr Sabet, a drug policy scholar, will also speak at the Asia-Pacific Forum Against Drugs. He told ST that in Singapore's case, deterrence in the form of strict drug legislation seems to be working. But he warned that the global consensus against drug abuse has been challenged in recent years by those who lobby for legislative changes and softer attitudes towards narcotics. Said Mr Sabet: 'One of the things I'm extremely worried about is the movement to legalise drugs. It's coming from a multibillion-dollar movement that is very smart, calculated, and running in non-governmental organisations around the world.' He pointed out that a key goal for the movement is to break the global consensus against drug abuse and argued that countries cannot lose sight of the need to work together. He cited Thailand's experience with decriminalising the recreational use of cannabis in 2022, but later reversed its decision after a public backlash. Mr Sabet said the movement targeted Thailand, arguing that cannabis could be used for medicinal purposes and somehow convincing the authorities to go ahead with the move. He said countries should not be swayed by such rhetoric. Said Mr Sabet: 'Instead, focus on a comprehensive approach and see prevention and recovery as your North Star. 'And do not succumb to those who tell us that we can simplify our way out of the drug problem by making drugs safer to use, or encouraging even more drug use.' Source: The Straits Times © SPH Media Limited. Permission required for reproduction Discover how to enjoy other premium articles here
The Star
15-05-2025
- Health
- The Star
Apac NGOs form coalition to promote drug-free societies
Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam addressing attendees at the Asia-Pacific Forum Against Drugs at Furama RiverFront Hotel on May 15, 2025. - Photo: ST SINGAPORE: (Bernama) Six non-governmental organisations (NGOs) from across the Asia-Pacific (Apac) region have formed a coalition to advocate for a more robust drug demand reduction programme and promote drug-free societies. Known as the Asia-Pacific Confederation against Drugs (APCD), the coalition was launched on Thursday (May 15) at the biennial Asia-Pacific Forum Against Drugs (APFAD) 2025 here as it strives to share best practices, forge regional cooperation, and sound the alarm on the harms of drugs through concerted programmes and projects. The founding members are Malaysia's Green Crescent, the Singapore Anti-Narcotics Association (Sana), the Association of Anti-Drug Abuse Coalitions of the Philippines, Hong Kong's Society for the Aid and Rehabilitation of Drug Abusers, Indonesia's National Movement Against Narcotics (Granat), and the Assistance and Empowerment Foundation for Papuan and West Papuan Community (YP2MP). Singapore Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam, who launched the coalition, said the initiative would bolster international partnerships in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse. "APCD will also seek to have a voice at international platforms like the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (UN CND) to speak against the rising tide of liberal policies and misinformation on drugs,' he said. Addressing the worsening global drug situation, Shanmugam said that synthetic drugs such as methamphetamine have driven a global surge in drug abuse. He also claimed that the loosening of cannabis restrictions globally is driving increased demand for drugs. He cautioned against the influence of the cannabis lobby and the false narrative of cannabis as a "soft drug", driven largely by commercial entities. "We saw this happening with tobacco companies. Cannabis companies are likewise downplaying the risks, driven by profits. They are also trying to entice the young,' he said. Shanmugam said that just two months ago, the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) seized a haul of cannabis-infused chocolate bars and candies during an operation. Shanmugam reiterated Singapore's firm stance against drugs. "The people have a right to a society free of drugs and the government has a responsibility to safeguard this right. "We take a harm prevention approach that combines tough laws and rigorous enforcement, robust rehabilitation programmes, and extensive public education,' he said, adding that the government enjoys the support of more than 85 per cent of the Singaporean community and civil society. Application for APCD membership is now open to APAC NGOs. "If more organisations join APCD, its effectiveness and voice can be multiplied,' he said. Organised by Sana from May 15 to 17, APFAD 2025 brings together more than 300 regional coalition members, NGOs, community partners, overseas correctional officers, and local government officials. Singapore has designated the third Friday of May each year as Drug Victims Remembrance Day to remember families, friends, and the wider community affected by drug abuse. This year, the day is observed on May 16. - Bernama
Straits Times
15-05-2025
- Health
- Straits Times
S'pore must be wary of synthetic drugs amid worst overdose epidemic in history: Veteran journalist
British journalist Ioan Grillo has reported on the drug scene from Mexico for more than two decades. ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN S'pore must be wary of synthetic drugs amid worst overdose epidemic in history: Veteran journalist SINGAPORE - Synthetic drugs like fentanyl have become so potent that illegal drug producers are intentionally weakening the dosage to prevent the drugs from killing their customers, said a veteran British journalist. Englishman Ioan Grillo has reported on the drug scene from Mexico for more than two decades, and is in Singapore to speak at the Asia-Pacific Forum Against Drugs, held at Furama RiverFront Hotel, on May 15. Used as a painkiller, fentanyl – a Class A controlled drug in Singapore – is estimated to be up to 100 times more potent than morphine. It killed 76,000 people in the US in 2023, and 48,422 in 2024. In his opening address at the forum, Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam said the threat of synthetic drugs is coming closer to home – after reports emerged in March that Malaysia had found traces of fentanyl in its sewage systems. Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam addressing attendees at the Asia-Pacific Forum Against Drugs at Furama RiverFront Hotel on May 15. ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO Tapping his experiences with drug cartels in Mexico, Mr Grillo said fentanyl has killed so many people that it is actually bad business for the drug sellers. He said: 'Because you're killing off your customers. So they're trying to find ways to mix it up with other drugs or tranquillisers.' Mr Grillo said that 20 years ago, he would be able to have a conversation with a drug user or addict. But the effects of synthetic drugs are more pronounced, such that he can barely make sense of his conversations with drug users today. He said: 'The addicts today are completely zombified, and an incredible number of people are dying from these drugs. This may be the worst overdose epidemic in history.' He added that modern synthetic drugs could be manufactured so purely that the doses are exponentially higher than that of drugs in the past. Speaking to The Straits Times on May 14, Mr Grillo said the revolution towards synthetic drugs has surfaced in Asia, and will pose a bigger problem than traditional plant-based drugs, like cannabis. He said: 'If you look at it – the biggest problem in Asia is methamphetamine, and it is a synthetic drug. (Suppliers) have found big markets in the Philippines, in Malaysia, and it's the biggest problem in Singapore.' Annual statistics from the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) show that methamphetamine was the most commonly abused drug in Singapore in 2024. In its 2024 report, the United Nations-backed International Narcotics Control Board said a rapid expansion of synthetic drugs is becoming a global public health threat. These drugs, which are cheaper to make, mean greater profits for producers and traffickers. In 2021, CNB uncovered the first known attempt to traffic fentanyl in its pure form into Singapore after seizing 200 vials containing about 20mg of the opioid in a scanned package from Vietnam. To solve the global drug problem, former White House Office of National Drug Control Policy adviser Kevin Sabet said governments should tackle drug problems on the local level first. Mr Sabet, a drug policy scholar, will also speak at the Asia-Pacific Forum Against Drugs. He told ST that in Singapore's case, deterrence in the form of strict drug legislation seems to be working. US drug policy scholar Kevin Sabet said governments should tackle drug problems on the local level first. ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN But he warned that the global consensus against drug abuse has been challenged in recent years by those who lobby for legislative changes and softer attitudes towards narcotics. Said Mr Sabet: 'One of the things I'm extremely worried about is the movement to legalise drugs. It's coming from a multibillion-dollar movement that is very smart, calculated, and running in non-governmental organisations around the world.' He pointed out that a key goal for the movement is to break the global consensus against drug abuse and argued that countries cannot lose sight of the need to work together. He cited Thailand's experience with decriminalising the recreational use of cannabis in 2022, but later reversing its decision after a public backlash. Mr Sabet said the movement targeted Thailand, arguing that cannabis could be used for medicinal purposes and somehow convincing the authorities to go forward with the move. He said countries should not be swayed by such rhetoric. Said Mr Sabet: 'Instead, focus on a comprehensive approach and see prevention and recovery as your North Star. 'And do not succumb to those who tell us that we can simplify our way out of the drug problem by making drugs safer to use, or encouraging even more drug use.' Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
Straits Times
15-05-2025
- Health
- Straits Times
Singapore part of new coalition to tackle drug trafficking, abuse: Shanmugam
Minister for Law and Home Affairs K Shanmugam addressing attendees of the Asia-Pacific Forum Against Drugs at Furama Riverfront Hotel on May 15. ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO SINGAPORE - The Republic will be part of a new regional coalition of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse. The group, called the Asia-Pacific Confederation against Drugs (APCD), will push for the creation of drug-free societies and stronger drug demand reduction efforts. The founding group will include members from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Hong Kong. On May 15, Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam announced the formation of the coalition and said Singapore will be represented by the Singapore Anti-Narcotics Association. Mr Shanmugam, who was accompanied by Minister of State for Home Affairs and National Development Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, was speaking at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Forum Against Drugs held at Furama RiverFront Hotel in Havelock Road. More than 300 coalition members, NGOs, partners, overseas correctional officers and local government officials are expected to attend the forum, which will take place from May 15 to 17. Mr Shanmugam, who is also Law Minister, said the APCD will strengthen regional cooperation through joint programmes, and speak up against the rising tide of liberal policies and misinformation on drugs. He announced this in the wake of the rising threat of potent synthetic drugs like fentanyl. He said Malaysia had detected traces of the opioid in its sewage systems in March, suggesting that locals were abusing the drug there. Said Mr Shanmugam: '(Fentanyl) is 50 times more potent than heroin, and its effects have been devastating. 'Between 2018 and 2022, or a 5-year period, over 250,000 Americans died from fentanyl overdose. In 2022 alone, there were about 200 people dying in the US every single day.' Mr Shanmugam added that the total number of deaths from fentanyl overdose in the US outnumbered the total number of people who have died in all of America's wars, including the Second World War, and the ones in Korea, Vietnam and Afghanistan. He said unlike traditional plant-based drugs like cocaine or heroin, synthetic drugs such as methamphetamine, ketamine and fentanyl can be produced anywhere, even in the backyard of someone's house. He noted Myanmar is already one of the world's largest manufacturers of synthetic drugs, and one of the biggest hosts of organised crime in the world. 'The situation in our region is also worrying… This is happening right at our doorstep. But given how interconnected the world is, what happens in Myanmar has deep implications all over the world,' he said. He added that the rapid liberalisation of cannabis controls around the world has fuelled an increase in demand. A report by the United Nations estimated there are 228 million cannabis users globally in 2022. This is despite clear medical evidence that the use of cannabis can cause irreversible brain damage and serious psychiatric disorders, Mr Shanmugam said. Statistics by the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) show that in 2024, more than half of new cannabis abusers arrested in Singapore were below 30, which suggested a growing permissiveness among young people towards the drug. The report showed methamphetamine, heroin and cannabis were the most commonly abused drugs in Singapore that year. Mr Shanmugam said a false narrative that cannabis is a 'soft drug' has been largely driven by commercial entities, similar to how tobacco corporations marketed smoking in the 1990s. '(Tobacco corporations) ran advertisements of doctors saying smoking was good for health. They even introduced flavoured cigarettes to make it more appealing to the younger generation. Cannabis companies are likewise downplaying the risks, driven by profits. They are also trying to entice the young,' he said. Mr Shanmugam said he had heard how cannabis lobby groups had argued for the drug's use as medicinal tools when he attended international forums, including at a United Nations forum. He said he would only support the use of cannabis for medical use if a national medical association said it required the drug for treatment. He added: 'But I won't support it if it is some company that is profiting from the use of cannabis that wants to legalise it without any controls, and is trying to do it in the form of candy to 10-year-olds.' He stressed Singapore will remain resolute in maintaining its tough stance against drugs, explaining that countries should be under no illusions about the difficulty in dealing with the global drug problem. He explained the Republic's death penalty is most commonly used for drug traffickers, and that these criminals are only focused on making money out of the death and misery of others. He said: 'And so we make our laws very clear. We tell people you traffic in drugs, you face the death penalty, and we impose it.' Mr Shanmugam said the global drug trade was a multi-billion dollar industry with powerful, vested interests. It exploits the vulnerable, corrupts state institutions, and undermines the will of governments to tackle this problem, undermining the fabric of societies, all for profit. He said: 'Challenging as it may be, we have to press on, because we have morality and right on our side, and it is the right thing to do.' Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
