IAS records 119 individuals using drugs in 2023

In 2023, the Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) reported that 119 individuals were using drugs. This figure indicates a 40% increase from the previous year, but a 65% decrease compared to 2019. Data from the Central Registration System for Drug Abusers revealed that there was a minimum of five cases involving drug abusers under the age of 21, showing a year-on-year increase. Authorities noted that overall drug usage remained relatively low last year, with crystal methamphetamine being the primary illegal substance consumed, while cannabis exhibited a rising trend. The data also showed a decline in the rate of drug abuse among young students, dropping from 2.92% in 2018 to 0.96% in 2022.