Factors Behind the Two-Year Recidivism Rate for Inmates Released from Drug Rehabilitation Centres Reaching the Highest Since 2015

Question:

Mr Yip Hon Weng: To ask the Minister for Home Affairs in view of the two-year recidivism rate for inmates released from drug rehabilitation centres (DRCs) reaching the highest since 2015 (a) what factors have contributed to the rise in the recidivism rate; (b) whether the Ministry is reviewing the effectiveness of rehabilitation programmes within DRCs; and (c) where do drug abusers obtain their supplies from and whether the increased accessibility to drugs has contributed to the increase in recidivism rate.

Answer:

Assoc Prof Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development:

1. Sir, the recidivism rate is influenced by many factors, including the extent of the ex-offender’s family or peer support after their release into the community, as well as their ability to remain gainfully employed.

2. In 2019, MHA changed the drug rehabilitation regime such that abusers who are arrested for the third and subsequent times are sent to the Drug Rehabilitation Centre (DRC) for rehabilitation, instead of being prosecuted and subject to an extended imprisonment term. Since this change, the proportion of repeat drug abusers in the DRC release cohorts has increased from about 35% for the 2020 release cohort to 54% for the 2022 release cohort. Repeat drug abusers have a higher likelihood of reoffending, and this may have contributed to the increase in the recidivism rate of DRC inmates.

3. SPS regularly reviews the DRC regime to ensure it remains effective in addressing the drug abusers’ risks and needs. For example, to better prepare drug abusers for release, SPS recently established the Reintegration Hub to centralise the pre-emplacement regime for drug abusers who are scheduled for release on community-based programmes.

4. Drug abusers obtain drugs from various sources, including through platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp. To curb the accessibility and supply of drugs into Singapore, CNB regularly orders online platforms to take down material advertising the sale of controlled drugs, and takes tough action against drug traffickers as well as syndicates operating from overseas. Last year, CNB dismantled 25 drug syndicates and made significant drug seizures with an estimated market value of about $13.5 million. CNB will continue with its robust enforcement efforts, to stem the supply of drugs and keep Singapore drug-free.