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Feature Articles

Formation of Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB)

21 November 2025

Singapore’s fight against drugs began with the launch of CNB in November 1971.

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CNB officer taking out slabs of opium hidden in a car’s headlights at the Woodlands Checkpoint in 1973

📸: National Archives of Singapore

In November 1971, Singapore took a decisive step to protect our people from the harmful effects of drugs with the establishment of the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB). At the time, rising drug addiction among youths posed a serious threat. Recognising its devastating impact on families and society, CNB led coordinated national efforts in enforcement and rehabilitation, marking the start of our determined fight to safeguard public health from drugs.

Over the years, CNB’s mission has evolved. Beyond enforcement, our drug-control strategy is targeted at reducing both drug supply and demand. This is achieved through preventive education, firm laws, rehabilitation, and community partnerships. This comprehensive approach ensures that while we keep traffickers and syndicates at bay, we also support abusers in rebuilding their lives and reintegrating into society. Yet, the challenges continue to grow. CNB faces the rise of younger first-time offenders, the influence of global pro-drug narratives, and new synthetic substances that emerge faster than ever before.

🚨 According to the Singapore Drug Situation Report 2024

  • 3,175 drug abusers arrested (2% increase from 2023)

  • 996 were new abusers (5% increase from 2023)

  • Of these, 34% were below 30 years old, including 35 youth abusers aged below 18, up from 27 in 2023.

  • Methamphetamine remains the most abused drug, with seizures increasing significantly

The fight against drugs continues to evolve. In 2025, CNB and partner agencies cracked down on Etomidate-laced vaping pods (K-pods), a new drug trend involving a misused medical anaesthetic. Hundreds were seized in islandwide operations, leading to arrests and Etomidate’s classification as a Class C controlled drug.

Our fight against drugs has never been about enforcement alone, but about protecting the lives and future of our people. Today, more than five decades on, Singapore remains steadfast in our drug-free vision — standing firm against global trends that normalise drug use, and continuing to build a drug-free Singapore for all. 🌿🇸🇬

#LittleRedDotSG #Singapore #CNB #SayNoToDrugs #Endkpods


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