The number of reported drug abusers in Hong Kong fell 5% year-on-year in the first half of 2021, the Action Committee Against Narcotics announced today.

According to the latest Central Registry of Drug Abuse figures, the number of reported drug abusers aged under 21 rose 76% during the period.

The number of reported psychotropic substance abusers went up 20%, while the number of reported narcotic analgesic abusers decreased 34% in the same period.

Heroin remained the frequently abused drug in the city, while methamphetamine continued to be the most common psychotropic substance abused.

The committee’s Chairman Dr Donald Li noted that there has recently been a rising trend in cannabis and ketamine abuse, and the number of cocaine abusers also increased.

The situation of young people reported as abusing these drugs warrants particular attention, he added.

Commissioner for Narcotics Ivy Law also reminded young people that drug offences are liable to serious criminal punishment.