CNB to use hair analysis for drug detection
New tool will be a stronger deterrent with detection window of three months
Published on Apr 25, 2012
The Central Narcotics Bureau's Special Task Force demonstrating a house raid during the CNB Workplan Seminar on Tuesday. The event showcased new initiatives by the inter-ministry Taskforce on Drugs to tackle drug abuse here. -- PHOTO: BERITA HARIAN
By Bryna Sim
The urine test is the default detection tool for drug abuse, but the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) will soon have a supplementary tool - hair analysis.
Drugs can be detected in a person's urine a week after consumption, but hair retains traces of illicit drugs for as long as three months.
This longer detection window means those who are required by law to show up for regular checks for signs of drug abuse will be up against a stronger deterrent.
BACKGROUND STORY
The CNB made 50 per cent more heroin seizures and 150 per cent more crystal methamphetamine - better known as Ice - seizures last year than in 2010.
