Dhaka:The government has intensified its efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse under its zero-tolerance policy. This includes the implementation of tougher law enforcement, legal reforms, modern detection technology, and expanded treatment facilities aimed at protecting the country's youth and future generations.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the government has replaced the existing Narcotics Control Act, 2018, with the Narcotics Control (Amendment) Act, 2026. The amended law introduces tougher penalties for online drug trafficking, provisions for asset confiscation linked to drug crimes, and stronger enforcement powers for the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC). It also establishes specialized tribunals for faster trials.
The amended law imposes major penalties, including imprisonment and fines of up to Tk 20 lakh for online drug trafficking and up to Tk 50 lakh for organized or international digital drug crimes. Serious offenses involving specified drugs may result in life imprisonment or the death penalty, and assets related to drug crimes may be confiscated.
The government is also enhancing drug-detection facilities, rehabilitation services, and drug-prevention programs in educational institutions to protect young people. The Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) is being strengthened with modern equipment, dog squads, and improved laboratory facilities.
Efforts are underway to establish advanced chemical laboratories in every district to improve drug testing accuracy. The government's strategy aims to dismantle the entire drug supply chain, including cross-border trafficking networks and influential individuals.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed emphasized the government's commitment to dismantling drug networks and bringing key figures to justice. He highlighted the use of digital platforms by drug trafficking groups and the need to strengthen the legal framework with advice from the National Telecommunication Monitoring Centre (NTMC).
A nationwide special operation from July to September 2026 resulted in 44,288 arrests related to various criminal activities. Of these, 30,187 were drug-related. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) and Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) recorded significant drug-related arrests during this period.
The government is also focusing on improving the technical capacity of law enforcement agencies to combat sophisticated narcotics operations. Discoveries like a ketamine-producing lab in Dhaka's Uttara area illustrate the growing complexity of drug-related activities.
Authorities are addressing the threat of synthetic and semi-synthetic drugs by deploying detection dogs and expanding laboratory facilities. Alongside enforcement, the government emphasizes treatment and rehabilitation, recognizing drug addiction as a public health challenge.
Modern drug treatment and rehabilitation centers are being constructed in seven divisional cities, and the capacity of the Central Drug Addiction Treatment Centre in Dhaka is being expanded. The initiatives aim to improve treatment access and help individuals lead productive lives.
The Home Ministry plans to form committees in educational institutions to prevent drug abuse and gambling, ensuring a safe educational environment. The minister has called on various societal sectors to join a broader movement against drugs, stressing the need for collective action to eliminate the drug menace.