The Korea Customs Service (KCS) announced on Tuesday that the amount of drugs confiscated before entering the country had jumped 30% from the same period last year. During the January-September period of 2023, a total of 493 kilograms of drugs were seized, compared to 383 kg from the previous year.
The number of smuggling attempts declined 11% to 501 cases, however, the average volume of drugs in each case rose significantly. This increase in drug smuggling is attributed to South Korea’s enhanced border control, along with the greater demand for narcotics and the subsequent price hikes.
Out of the total, 49.3% or 243 kg was smuggled through international mail, followed by express cargo with 136 kg and air travelers with 102 kg. Methamphetamine accounted for 49.9% of all drugs seized, hemp for 24.3%, and ketamine for 6.3%. Thailand was the main source of drugs with 24.9% or 123 kg, followed by the US at 23.53%, Laos at 9.53%, and Vietnam at 7.1%.
To counter illegal narcotics trading, the KCS decided to establish a special task force and devise stronger countermeasures. An agency official said that they plan to double the number of air travelers to be checked for drugs, and also expand the use of full-body scanners while strengthening international cooperation with countries such as Thailand and the Netherlands.
This file photo, provided by the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency on March 30, 2023, shows a variety of drugs seized in recent police crackdowns at entertainment establishments in southern Seoul. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
graceoh@yna.co.kr
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