Myanmar destroys $600 million worth of seized drugs on UN Anti-Drug Day

Myanmar authorities destroyed more than $600 million worth of seized illegal drugs in nationwide operations on Friday to mark the United Nations' International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The destroyed narcotics included heroin, methamphetamine, ketamine, opium, marijuana and crystal meth.

The largest destruction event took place in Yangon, where drugs valued at around $321 million were incinerated. Similar ceremonies were also held in Mandalay and Taunggyi, regions close to Myanmar's major drug-producing areas.

Myanmar has long been one of the world's biggest producers of heroin and methamphetamine, with much of the trade concentrated in the Golden Triangle region. Experts say drug production has increased since the 2021 military takeover, as the ongoing civil conflict has created conditions that enable narcotics manufacturing and trafficking.

Officials said the street value of the drugs destroyed this year was more than double last year's figure. Earlier this year, authorities also announced record seizures of drugs and manufacturing equipment during raids in Shan State.

The military government has accused several ethnic armed groups of using the illegal drug trade to finance their operations, although some insurgent groups have also carried out independent anti-drug campaigns in territories under their control.