Roadblocks and checkpoints began using saliva testing to catch drug users

SINGAPORE: At Singapore’s border checkpoints and roadblock operations, saliva tests are now being used to identify drug users, according to Minister of State for Home Affairs Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim in Parliament today, February 27, 2023.

According to Associate Professor Faishal, this comes as drug use continues to rise worldwide. Thailand became the first Asian nation to decriminalize cannabis last year.

During the Committee of Supply debates, he spoke about drugs, rehabilitation, and terrorism.

He stated that the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) began using saliva test kits at checkpoints in January of this year to prevent Singaporeans and permanent residents from consuming drugs abroad.

The kits, which can detect cannabis, cocaine, and methamphetamine, have also been used in inland enforcement operations.

“Light and compact are these kits, like the one I’m holding here. Assoc Prof. Faishal added, “They offer a more efficient method to detect drug abusers at the checkpoints,” in response to a question from MP Gan Thiam Poh (PAP-Ang Mo Kio) regarding the manner in which the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is intensifying drug enforcement.

Taking drugs outside of Singapore is illegal for PRs and Singaporeans. A hair test or a urine test, for example, can also be used to check for drug use.