Myanmar burns $321 million worth of seized drugs

Myanmar authorities burned seized narcotics and precursor chemicals worth US$321.32 million in Yangon on Friday as the country marked the 39th International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

Police displayed confiscated drugs and illegal substances before guiding visitors through exhibits highlighting the dangers of narcotics. The event ended with tonnes of seized drugs being set on fire, sending thick smoke into the sky.

"The total value of the drugs that will be burned today is 1.176 trillion Myanmar kyats, or 321.32 million US dollars," Yangon Region Police Chief Ko Ko Lwin said.

Authorities said similar destruction ceremonies also took place in Mandalay, where drugs worth about US$113.67 million were destroyed, and in Taunggyi, where narcotics valued at around US$168.76 million were incinerated.

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Combined, the three events saw more than US$600 million worth of seized drugs destroyed nationwide during this year's observance.

Officials said Myanmar has carried out 41 nationwide anti-drug operations between 2013 and 2026. They added that Operation 42/26, targeting drug production networks and precursor chemicals, remains under way following expanded enforcement efforts launched in 2025.

According to official figures, joint operations by the Myanmar Armed Forces, the Myanmar Police Force and partner agencies in 2025 resulted in 5,370 drug-related cases and 7,562 arrests.

Authorities also said narcotics and related materials worth more than 1.76 trillion Myanmar kyats, approximately US$838 million, were seized during those operations.