Drug-related cases and domestic violence topped police records in the first half of this year. Over 800 drug cases and more than 350 domestic violence cases were reported during that period. Police said the surge reflects tighter surveillance and growing public awareness, bringing more cases to light.
The highest number of drug-related cases this year was reported in Thimphu with more than 240 cases. It was followed by Phuentshogling and Gelephu with more than 220 and 90 cases, respectively.
Police said the cases in these towns were due to high population, urban influx and easy access to controlled substances across the border.
Police said children coming into conflict with the law are mostly related to substance abuse.
Between January and June alone, more than 100 cases of children coming in conflict with the law were reported, compared to more than 60 cases each in last two years.
Col. Passang Dorji, Deputy Chief of Police of the Crime and Operations Department said, “The most common offences among children in conflict with the law are battery, substance abuse, and solvent misuse. Substances such as thinner, dendrite, petrol, and correction fluid are often sniffed, causing direct and severe damage to the brain. It is everyone’s responsibility to prevent children from accessing or using these substances, and children themselves must think twice before getting involved.”
He added that shopkeepers are regularly reminded not to sell inhalants, solvents, and medicines to minors, stressing the collective responsibility of parents and communities.
“If we only care for our own children but neglect others, their struggles can eventually have a negative impact on our children’s lives too. Therefore, alcohol and medicines, even with a prescription but without parental presence should never be sold to children.”
Domestic violence also continues to be a pressing concern. The number of cases has been on rise in recent years.
The number of such cases has risen from 415 in 2023 to nearly 430 in 2024.
“In the past, many domestic violence cases went unreported due to stigma and the reluctance of people to come forward, out of fear. Today, greater awareness has encouraged more people to report such cases.”
Despite these figures, police said overall crime is on a declining trend.
Kinzang Lhadon
