Hair scanner takes less than a minute to identify drug abusers

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, July 23, 2026

The Central Narcotics Bureau unveiled a new hair scanner that detects drug use in under a minute without needing a hair sample, alongside AI-driven tools like NarcoNet to accelerate investigations. These innovations aim to enhance drug enforcement efficiency amid rising drug abuse, especially among youth, as Singapore battles increasing methamphetamine and cannabis use.

A new hair scanner capable of detecting drug use in under a minute was showcased at the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) Workplan Seminar 2026 held on July 22 at the Singapore Expo. The device, roughly the size of a laptop mouse, attaches to a person’s hair without requiring a sample to be cut and displays results on a connected laptop. Developed by the Home Team Science and Technology Agency (HTX), the non-invasive technology employs spectroscopy to analyze the wavelengths of light absorbed or emitted by hair, enabling rapid identification of drug use. HTX’s Senior Forensic Scientist Ong Sheau Wei noted that Singapore is likely the only country currently exploring this technology for drug detection.

In addition to the hair scanner, CNB and HTX presented several other innovations aimed at enhancing operational efficiency. Among these is NarcoNet, an artificial intelligence-powered platform designed to expedite investigative work by automatically analyzing data from suspects’ mobile phones, including chat logs, to identify incriminating evidence such as drug-related communications and images. The platform can generate a statement of facts (SOF) instantly, a process that traditionally requires hours of manual work. NarcoNet is expected to be deployed by the end of July.

Another recent innovation, the Next Generation Reporting Centre, was introduced on July 1 within the CNB Enforcement "E" Division. This facility automates the urine hair-drying process, reducing officers' physical contact with biological samples and improving both efficiency and hygiene.

Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs Sim Ann highlighted ongoing concerns about drug abuse globally during her opening address. She cited United Nations data showing that in 2024, approximately 331 million people aged 15 to 64 used drugs within the past year—a 34% increase over the previous decade. Methamphetamine seizures in East and Southeast Asia have also surged, with 349 tonnes confiscated in 2025, up 48% from 236 tonnes in 2024.

Locally, CNB dismantled 25 drug syndicates in 2025 and seized drugs valued at over S$23 million. However, the problem remains acute among young people. Half of the 1,188 new drug abusers arrested in Singapore last year were under 30. Methamphetamine remains the most commonly abused substance, but cannabis use is also of concern, especially as half of the new cannabis abusers arrested were under 30. Sim emphasized that these statistics represent individuals within the community, stating, "These are not faceless numbers; they are our children, our students, our neighbours and our friends."

Chew Tuan Chiong, vice-chairman of the National Council Against Drug Abuse, urged parents to educate themselves about drug prevention to effectively communicate with their children. She warned that being unprepared could lead to misinformation, which may ultimately undermine prevention efforts.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.