NCJ Number
136355
Date Published
1992
Length
27 pages
Annotation
At their 16th meeting, held in 1991, the leaders of national drug law enforcement agencies of countries in Asia and the Pacific considered ways to address the illicit production and trafficking of heroin, cocaine, and other drugs.
Abstract
Participants agreed that international cooperation in drug law enforcement and uniform national legislation are required for effective efforts to detect and confiscate assets derived from drug trafficking. Most countries are being adversely affected by illicit traffic in opium and heroin from southeast and southwest Asia. Prices and purity of heroin varied widely. Internal body concealment and false luggage compartments and linings continue to be among the most common methods of trafficking, particularly for heroin. The international mail system is also used extensively. Other observations were that the problem of illicit cultivation of opium poppies cannot be separated from the production, distribution, and demand for opium; that drug trafficking routes change continually in response to law enforcement efforts; and that the United States cocaine market appears to have peaked. Recommendations focus on international cooperation in law enforcement and information sharing, training efforts, and the enactment of national legislation matching the United Nations convention on drug abuse.