In a shocking turn of events, officials in Hamhung have been arrested for drug trafficking, sparking public outrage and scrutiny over their potential punishments. The main suspect, Choe, has allegedly been selling methamphetamine for over a decade under the guise of a clothing business.
The investigation revealed that some high-profile individuals were among Choe’s customers, leading to the arrest of nine people on drug-related charges, including city party committee officials and a district police officer. Despite rumors of severe punishments, the case has garnered significant attention due to the involvement of government officials in drug crimes.
Corruption among those responsible for upholding drug laws is not uncommon in North Korea, as highlighted by a recent lecture condemning the arrested officials. Methamphetamine use has been on the rise since the country’s economic collapse in the mid-1990s, with officials often playing a role in its spread despite strict laws against drug trafficking.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in curbing illegal drug activities in North Korea, with the line between enforcers and offenders often blurring. Despite the ongoing crackdown, drug crimes persist, raising questions about the effectiveness of existing measures.
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