Reply to Media Queries on SAF's Measures to Tackle Drug Abuse

The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) take a zero-tolerance approach against drug offences, and continues to work closely with the Central Narcotics Bureau to deal with drug abuse in the SAF. MINDEF/SAF’s anti-drug management framework includes preventive education, detection, enforcement and rehabilitation. 

To enhance preventive drug education outreach, MINDEF/SAF conducts regular talks to all recruits and commanders in training schools. MINDEF/SAF has also introduced and distributed resource toolkits to commanders so that they can better manage and educate their men on the dangers of drug abuse. MINDEF/SAF will continue to emphasise its zero-tolerance approach against drug abuse message to servicemen. 

To deter and detect drug abusers, the SAF conducts regular drug screening exercises on our servicemen. More recently, the SAF has ramped up urine screening in SAF units to increase our detection efforts. Drug screening exercises will also be conducted for all recruits and cadets. Stern disciplinary actions are taken against servicemen found abusing drugs. These servicemen will also undergo supervision and treatment programmes, as part of the rehabilitation process.