Nationwide Drug Test Reveals Low Drug Use in Cambodian Government

[CEOCambodiaNews]

Nationwide Drug Testing of Government Officials Yields Low Positive Results

[CAMBODIA NEWS] In a recent nationwide drug testing initiative, approximately 99,300 civil servants and armed forces personnel have been screened, with only 97 individuals testing positive for illegal substances. This information was disclosed by General Meas Vyrith, Secretary-General of the National Authority for Combating Drugs (NACD), on the morning of July 22, 2024.



General Vyrith further elaborated that among the 97 individuals who tested positive, 89 have already been dismissed from their positions. The remaining eight are currently under observation or subject to ongoing procedures. He emphasized the low incidence rate, stating, "Out of every 1,000 officials tested, only one was found to be using illegal substances."

"As of today, we have conducted rapid urine tests on 99,300 civil servants and armed forces personnel across the country," General Vyrith reported. "Of these, 97 were found to have used prohibited substances. Among the 97, 89 have been dismissed from their positions, seven are undergoing further procedures, and one is under close monitoring."

The high-ranking NACD official added that the drug testing also involved public officials. Administrative measures have been taken in some cases, while others face strict legal actions in accordance with existing laws, particularly for offenses deemed too serious for leniency.

General Vyrith's statements were made during a forum with journalists from various institutions, organized by the Club of Cambodian Journalists on the morning of July 22, 2024, at the Office of the Council of Ministers.