Cambodia destroys $500 million worth of illegal drugs

Cambodia on Tuesday destroyed 5.62 tonnes of illegal drugs and precursor chemicals worth an estimated $500 million, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sar Sokha. Speaking at the destruction ceremony in Kandal Province’s Ponhea Leu district, Sokha said the event sends a clear message of zero tolerance to drug traffickers. ‘This step clearly reflects the government’s vision to build a drug-free Cambodia,’ he said. Sokha also praised law enforcement for their relentless efforts in combating drug crimes to maintain national peace, security, and public order. The illicit goods were seized from various operations conducted in 2025 in Phnom Penh and Kampong Chhnang Province. Data from the Cambodian Anti-Drug Police Department revealed that in the first half of 2026, authorities arrested 12,531 drug suspects, including 225 foreign nationals, and seized 2.38 tonnes of narcotics. The Southeast Asian nation does not impose the death penalty for drug trafficking, but trafficking quantities exceeding 80 grams can result in life imprisonment.