The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Amnesty Scheme was introduced in 1976 to provide an opportunity for drug abusers to seek help. Under the scheme, drug offenders who confess the first time will not be punished and will receive counselling and rehabilitation. Servicemen who wish to make a confession can approach the unit commanders, medical officers, orientation officers or para-counsellors. They can also call the SAF counselling hotline at 1800-278-0022.

During Basic Military Training, recruits attend talks conducted by the SAF Counselling Centre (SCC) on the harmful effects of drugs. Preventive education continues after BMT, with anti-drug talks being conducted by the SCC and the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) in SAF camps. The SCC conducts individual/group counselling and drug abuse awareness programmes. Commanders are also trained and equipped to manage drug abusers. 

The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the SAF take a zero-tolerance approach against drug offences. Stern actions are taken against servicemen who abuse drugs. Our anti-drug management framework includes preventive education, detection, enforcement and rehabilitation. To deter and detect drug abusers, the SAF conducts regular urine screening exercises. Servicemen found abusing drugs will be disciplined and sentenced to detention. As part of the rehabilitation process, these servicemen will undergo supervision and treatment programmes.

The SAF Amnesty Scheme only allows drug abusers to confess once under the scheme. Those who subsequently go on to continue to abuse drugs will be punished.