DNC Plans Cybersecurity, Money-Laundering Unit, Body Cameras to Tackle Drug Networks
The Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) has proposed specialised investigative units, modern detection equipment and stronger prosecution arrangements to tackle drug networks. The plan comes as the agency faces staff shortages, limited transport and gaps in forensic facilities.
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In a Nutshell
- The DNC plans to establish a Cyber Security and Money Laundering Unit to investigate technology-based drug trafficking and trace the funds that support it. A digital forensic laboratory and a dedicated canine squad are also proposed.
- Field officers could receive body-worn cameras, portable drug detectors, advanced X-ray scanners and improved communication devices. A specialised academy would provide training.
- The roadmap includes prosecution offices at Chief Metropolitan Magistrate courts and a proposal to give departmental prosecutors the full authority of public prosecutors, subject to legal and administrative approval.
Context
The plan aims to strengthen the entire enforcement process from detecting drugs and tracing financial networks to collecting electronic evidence and presenting cases in court. The DNC has also proposed cooperation with the Armed Police Battalion for joint operations at airports and other strategic locations. The proposed changes to prosecutors’ authority are intended to improve case presentation and reduce delays. They are not powers already granted under this roadmap.
Why It Matters
Between January and September 2026, DNC filed 25,021 cases against 26,270 people accused of drug-related offences. Seizures of yaba and other amphetamine-type stimulant tablets rose by 90.58% in 2025 compared with 2024, while drug cases accounted for 38% of all criminal cases filed nationwide between 2020 and 2024.
Meanwhile, DNC has 2,272 personnel against 2,943 approved positions, leaving 671 vacancies. It also lacks official vehicles in 13 districts and faces shortages of detection equipment and specialised facilities. These gaps limit the agency’s ability to investigate cases and respond effectively.
What We Think
Better equipment could strengthen accountability alongside enforcement. Allegations against police of fabricating drug cases for extortion highlight the risks of abuse in narcotics enforcement. Body-worn cameras could help document searches, arrests and drug recoveries, making disputed accounts easier to examine.
Expanded prosecutorial authority could improve coordination, but unclear limits could also create room for misuse. Clear legal boundaries, disclosure of evidence and meaningful judicial oversight could help ensure that closer cooperation between investigators and prosecutors does not weaken scrutiny of questionable cases.