Police arrest 131 on drug charges in March

Drugs valued at more than N$2 million were seized last month and 131 suspects were arrested in connection with drug-related crimes.

Of these, 118 suspects are Namibian citizens, while 10 Angolans, two Zambians and one Tanzanian national were also arrested.

According to the police drug seizure and arrest report for March, the seized drugs included 207 434 kilograms of cannabis valued at more than N$2.07 million, 642 full mandrax tablets worth N$77 040 and 124 units of crack cocaine worth N$12 400.

According to data from the 2023 World Drug Report, drug use continues to be prevalent worldwide, with cannabis still being the most-used drug.

The data indicated that more than 2.6 million kilograms of cannabis were seized in 2021 in Namibia.

In addition, 2 743 kilograms of mephedrone, a mix of speed, ecstasy and cocaine, were confiscated, as were 740 units of crack cocaine, 937 grams of cocaine hydrochloride, 41 units of LSD and 400 grams of magic mushrooms.

According to the report, 296 million people used drugs in 2021 around the world, an increase of 23% compared to the previous decade.

Meanwhile, the number of people who suffer from drug use disorders has skyrocketed to 39.5 million, a 45% increase over the past 10 years.