Beijing court looks to raise awareness of new types of drugs

A Beijing court said on Friday that it has seen a rising number of cases involving new types of drugs over the past five years, and called on residents to raise their awareness of these drugs and avoid them.

Data released by the Xicheng District People's Court on Friday showed that it dealt with a total of 72 drug cases from January 2018 to April this year, 59 of which involved new types of drugs such as synthetic cannabis.

The proportion of cases involving these new types of drugs among all drug-related cases increased from 68.8 percent in 2018 to 80 percent last year, according to the data.

The average age of people involved in the new-type drug cases dropped from 34.8 in 2018 to 29.8 last year, indicating that the suspects are getting younger, the data added.

"New types of drugs are mostly disguised as snacks and beverages with misleading packaging, which makes it more difficult for consumers to know what they're consuming," Wang Qi, vice-president of the court, told a news conference on Friday.

"For example, some drugs look like electronic cigarettes, while some are even made into candies, chocolates, cookies or tea to deceive people," he said.

Wang said that the price of new types of drugs are generally lower than that of traditional ones, adding that they are mostly purchased in clubs, bars and karaoke venues where young consumers frequently visit.

"We've continuously strengthened the fight against drug-related crimes, especially those involving new types and targeting juveniles," he said. "We've also given harsher punishment to criminals who have raped, intentionally injured or robbed others after taking drugs."

To help young people avoid the new drugs and to distinguish them from snacks or beverages, "our judges have been ordered to visit communities and schools to share relevant knowledge with them, introducing typical drug-related cases to them," Wang added.

Ji Min, a criminal judge from the court, called for more joint efforts with cyberspace, healthcare and market regulators to combat drug crimes more effectively, suggesting that people engaged in the logistics industry and delivery services double check the security of their goods.

In addition, she said that consumers, especially those who usually visit entertainment venues, also need to enhance their awareness and "not accept food, beverages or cigarettes from strangers," she added.