Taliban's New Penal Code Imposes Prison Terms for Drug Use and Trafficking

KABUL (Afghan Verified) — A new penal code under the Taliban has introduced prison terms for drug use and trafficking as consumption patterns in Afghanistan shift toward synthetic substances.

Individuals using narcotic substances face up to six months in prison, depending on their condition. Drug sellers face harsher penalties, with prison sentences ranging from one to seven years. Poppy and cannabis cultivation also carries jail terms.

The code specifies substances including heroin, opium, hashish, alcohol, tramadol and other narcotics. Punishments increase based on quantities seized.

The regulations eliminate appeal rights in narcotics-related cases, making lower court rulings final in many instances.

A recent UN report indicates drug consumption in Afghanistan is shifting from traditional narcotics toward synthetic drugs and misuse of pharmaceutical medicines.

Despite Taliban announcements banning narcotics production and use, international reports suggest challenges with consumption and production remain widespread across the country.