Kathmandu, Nepal/22 July 2025: In the fight against transnational drug trafficking, rapid and accurate detection is vital, especially for frontline officials responsible for interdictions and securing borders. Drug and precursor test kits play an essential role in helping law enforcement identify narcotics and illicit chemicals during inspections. These kits save time, improve accuracy, and support evidence-based decision-making in the field.
Enhancing this capacity, UNODC, with support from the U.S. Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), formally handed over drug and precursor test kits to Nepal Customs.
As drug traffickers become more advanced in concealing substances and misusing precursor chemicals, these testing kits are an important line of defence. These field kits are designed for on-site, rapid screening of a wide range of narcotics and chemical precursors.
For customs officers working at high-pressure points such as land borders and international airports, these tools provide a practical solution. They enable quick identification of suspicious substances and allow officers to make informed operational decisions during inspections without delay.
The handover is part of the ongoing partnership between UNODC, INL and Nepal Customs under the joint Passenger and Cargo Control Programme (PCCP).
In addition to equipment, the PCCP also focuses on technical assistance and regular training, aiming to build a skilled and well-resourced border workforce. The programme supports the balance between facilitating legitimate trade and intercepting criminal activity.
UNODC remains committed to supporting national authorities through technical assistance, training, and equipment to ensure frontline agencies are fully equipped to meet emerging threats in drug trafficking and precursor diversion.
This activity contributed to SDG 16 and SDG 17: https://sdg-tracker.org/
(Supported by US Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs)
