Tonnes of confiscated narcotics are torched and five people executed to mark global day against illicit use and trafficking
The mainland yesterday marked International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking by announcing at least five executions of traffickers and torching tonnes of confiscated drugs at mass rallies.
High-profile trials were held across the country and drug convicts were paraded before national television to highlight the authorities' determination to crack down on trafficking.
Yang Fengrui , deputy secretary-general of the China National Narcotics Control Commission, was quoted by the China News Service as saying the problem of drug use was still prevalent and the mainland's drug troubles were 'very critical' as a result of the rising international narcotics trade.
The latest number of drug addicts on the mainland topped at least 1 million, compared with 780,000 at the end of last year, Mr Yang also said.
Heroin remained the most popular drug for addicts and about 70 per cent of them were below 35, according to a previous report issued by the commission.
Mr Yang said China's leaders were highly concerned about illegal drugs and that they had pledged to fight the drug war. He was speaking at an anti-drug forum for young people in Hubei .