Drug-related offences remained the most common crime in Laos in 2025, with authorities recording 3,660 cases nationwide, according to the Ministry of Public Security.
Police detained 5,643 suspects, including 531 women and 322 foreign nationals. While drug cases fell by 111 compared to 2024, they continued to account for the largest share of criminal activity.
Authorities seized 244 million methamphetamine pills, 5,686 kilograms of ketamine, and 4,483 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine. Smaller quantities of marijuana, heroin, and opium were also confiscated. Officers impounded 133 cars, 547 motorcycles, 26 firearms, and cash in Lao kip and foreign currencies equivalent to about USD 60,000.
In Bokeo Province alone, police handled 293 drug cases and detained 380 suspects. Seizures included 151.9 million methamphetamine pills, 3,071 kg of crystal meth and 4,765 kg of ketamine. Police also destroyed 36.45 hectares of opium plantations and confiscated vehicles, weapons and other assets linked to trafficking operations.
Regional Pressure from the Golden Triangle
At the regional level, trafficking routes linked to the Golden Triangle, where Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand meet, continue to pose significant risks, the authorities said.
A 2025 report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime noted a record 236 tonnes of methamphetamine were seized across East and Southeast Asia in 2024, a 24 percent increase from the year before. The agency warned that production in Myanmar’s Shan State continues to drive trafficking routes through Laos and neighbouring countries.
Alongside enforcement, local prevention efforts have expanded. In June 2025, the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Bokeo marked the International Day Against Drug Abuse with education campaigns, youth activities and anti-drug seminars, highlighting cross-border cooperation and community action alongside enforcement.
Overall Crime Down in 2025
Nationwide, police recorded 6,996 criminal cases in 2025, excluding traffic accidents and fires, marking an overall decrease in crime cases by 353 cases compared to 2024.
After drug offences, ranked as the second most common crime with 1,651 cases, followed by 700 economic crimes. Cases of murder, human trafficking, and kidnapping each remained below 100.
Authorities reported total damage from criminal activity exceeding USD 4.7 million, including cash, gold, and vehicles.
For 2026, the government plans to prioritize national security and public order, focusing on safeguarding national stability, strengthening the welfare and capacity of security forces, and expanding international cooperation.
