Hong Kong, China, has seen significant shifts in drug use patterns over the past several years. From 2017 to 2022, the number of individuals using substances such as methamphetamine, ketamine, heroin, cocaine, and cannabis who were brought into formal contact with authorities offers insights into the region’s evolving drug landscape. This article provides a detailed analysis of these trends, with a specific focus on methamphetamine and ketamine.
Number of People Who Use Methamphetamine, Ketamine, Heroin, Cocaine, and Cannabis Brought Into Formal Contact with Authorities (2017-2022)
甲基苯丙胺
Methamphetamine, often referred to as “Ice,” has consistently been a significant issue in Hong Kong. From 2017 to 2022, the number of methamphetamine users brought into formal contact with authorities has steadily increased. This trend reflects the drug’s growing prevalence, particularly among younger populations and those involved in the nightlife and party scenes. The rising numbers suggest that methamphetamine remains a major concern for law enforcement and public health officials in the region.
氯胺酮
Ketamine has been a popular drug in Hong Kong since the early 2000s, particularly within the clubbing and party subcultures. Between 2017 and 2022, the number of people using ketamine who were brought into formal contact with authorities showed fluctuations. The early part of this period saw a decline in these numbers, but from 2020 onwards, there was a resurgence in ketamine-related cases. This rebound could be linked to changes in the drug’s availability and shifting social behaviors, particularly among younger demographics.
海洛因
Heroin use in Hong Kong has traditionally been associated with an older user demographic. The number of heroin users brought into formal contact with authorities has declined over the years, reflecting a broader global trend where heroin use has decreased as synthetic opioids and other drugs have become more prominent. The steady decline in heroin cases in Hong Kong suggests that the drug is losing its prevalence, possibly due to the aging of its traditional user base and the rise of alternative substances.
可卡因
Cocaine use has seen a notable increase in Hong Kong, particularly among wealthier social groups and expatriates. From 2017 to 2022, the number of individuals using cocaine who were brought into formal contact with authorities rose steadily. This trend is indicative of the growing demand for cocaine, which is often associated with affluence and social status in Hong Kong. The increase in cocaine cases points to the drug’s expanding footprint in the region.
大麻
Cannabis use has also been on the rise in Hong Kong, particularly influenced by global trends towards legalization and the perception of cannabis as a less harmful substance. The number of cannabis users brought into formal contact with authorities increased during this period, reflecting its growing acceptance and use, despite its illegal status in Hong Kong. This rise in cannabis cases may also be attributed to increased availability and the influence of social media in promoting cannabis culture.
Number of People Who Use Methamphetamine and Ketamine Brought Into Formal Contact with Authorities in Hong Kong, China
甲基苯丙胺
The number of methamphetamine users brought into formal contact with authorities in Hong Kong has seen a significant upward trend from 2017 to 2022. This increase highlights the growing challenge that methamphetamine poses to public health and law enforcement. The sharp rise in methamphetamine cases can be attributed to several factors, including increased trafficking routes, higher availability, and possibly the drug’s appeal due to its potency and long-lasting effects.
氯胺酮
For ketamine, the trend has been more variable. While the number of ketamine users brought into formal contact with authorities declined during the earlier part of the period, there was a noticeable increase starting around 2020. This rebound suggests that ketamine remains a popular choice among certain user groups, despite efforts to curb its use. The resurgence in ketamine cases could be linked to changes in the drug’s supply chains or shifts in user preferences.
结论
The data from 2017 to 2022 shows that Hong Kong has experienced significant shifts in drug use patterns, with notable increases in the number of individuals brought into formal contact with authorities for methamphetamine, ketamine, cocaine, and cannabis use. Heroin, on the other hand, appears to be declining in prevalence. These trends underscore the evolving nature of the drug landscape in Hong Kong and highlight the need for continued vigilance and adaptive strategies in public health and law enforcement to address the challenges posed by drug use.
参考
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Synthetic Drugs in East and Southeast Asia 2023.
