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Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB)

Our history

Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) was established in 1971 to lead Singapore’s anti-drug efforts.

Last updated 17 December 2025

On this page

Our past and present
'The Bureau's Fight for a #DrugFreeSG': Our past and present
'CNB50: Continuing the fight for a drug-free Singapore' commemorative stamp set
CNB50 In the news
Past and present photos of CNB’s 50-year journey for a drug-free Singapore.

As early as 1970, the menace of drug addiction was a concern in Singapore. In response to this, the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) was set up as a new and dedicated agency to fight the drug menace.

Established in 1971, CNB serves as the primary drug enforcement agency with a clear and focused mandate – to keep Singapore safe from the harms of drugs and inhalants.

Our past and present

The name ‘Central Narcotics Bureau’ (CNB) was coined by the then Permanent Secretary of Home Affairs, the late Mr Tay Seow Huah, and CNB’s first Director, the late Mr John Hanam. The name signified that drug enforcement was now centralised into one department, and also enabled overseas enforcement agencies to recognise CNB.

CNB’s first HQ at Robinson Road and campaign photos from 1977 and 1996.

With the prevalence of drug trafficking in the 1970s, the early CNB officers fought hard to protect Singapore from the scourge of drugs.

CNB officer finds opium hidden in scooter at Woodlands Checkpoint in 1973.
Early CNB officers conduct urine tests during long 16-hour work shifts.
CNB officers scale pipes and evade dogs during drug raids in early operations.
CNB officer with shield raids drug den where gunfire is heard, suspect later found dead.
First batch of CNB officers pose together in black-and-white photo with quote overlay.

'The Bureau's Fight for a #DrugFreeSG': Our past and present

CNB's fight for a #DrugFreeSG with officers, flags, and Marina Bay cityscape background.

The Bureau’s Fight for a #DrugFreeSG was published in 2021 to commemorate CNB’s 50th anniversary. The 108-page book consists of five sections, charting out CNB’s evolution journey over the years through stories shared by both past and present CNB officers. The Bureau’s Fight for a #DrugFreeSG takes a look back at Singapore’s fight against drugs, how CNB came to being, CNB’s role since its beginnings in November 1971 through the years, and the commitment of CNB officers – past and present – who dedicate their lives to keep Singapore safe from drugs.

Download and read The Bureau’s Fight for a #DrugFreeSG [PDF, 3.8 MB].

'CNB50: Continuing the fight for a drug-free Singapore' commemorative stamp set

Three CNB 50th anniversary stamps with anti-drug messages in green, red, and blue.

In collaboration with Singapore Post, the set of three stamps features key anti-drug messages that serve as a reminder to CNB’s commitment towards keeping Singapore safe from drugs on the occasion of CNB’s 50th anniversary in 2021. Members of the public can purchase the stamps from all post offices, Philatelic Stores and online at shop.singpost.com from 7 December 2021.

CNB50 In the news

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