Lao authorities vow to crack down more vigorously on drug traffickers and users. But the fact that Laos has become a transit point for international drug trafficking has made Lao youth increasingly victims of the trade.
In a recent speech marking World Drugs Day, Laos Prime Minister Bouasone Bouphavanh says his government gives top priority to suppressing drug traffickling, and will crack down harder on drug producers, suppliers as well as traffickers. But he says the fundamental factor in this effort is to raise awareness among the people about the danger of drugs.
Laos declared itself completely opium-free in February. However, last month Lao police seized about 40 kilos if garments that had been soaked in liquid opium, which shows opium poppies are still being cultivated in Laos.
The seizure was made at Wattay Airport and the central Post Office in Vientiane.
Listen to our Laos Today report for more details.