State Minister for Homeland Security and Technology and National Drug Agency’s Chairman Ahmed Siddiq said the government’s move to impose the death penalty on drug traffickers is widely supported by society and is necessary to protect future generations from the drug epidemic.
The third amendment to the Drugs Act was ratified and gazetted on 6 December, to come into force on 6 April. As per the amendment, the death penalty can be imposed for possession of more than 350g of cannabis, 250g of heroin, and over 100g of other drugs.
Speaking on PSM News’ Raajje Miadhu Programme, Siddiq described the amendment as the most significant amendment brought to the act to date. He said drug trafficking fuels crime, weakens families, and destroys lives, making strict punishment essential. He stressed the amendment’s aim is deterrence and saving people, not just punishment, and called on families and society to help prevent drug abuse.
The government has strengthened anti-smuggling operations and plans major improvements in drug treatment and rehabilitation this year. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has also pledged to prioritise tackling the drug problem as a major social issue.