Core Viewpoint - The Chinese judiciary is intensifying efforts to combat drug-related crimes, particularly focusing on severe penalties for drug offenses and special protections for minors, as evidenced by recent case announcements and statistical data [1][2][4]. Group 1: Drug Crime Statistics - In 2024, Chinese courts concluded 35,859 drug crime cases, with a 29.31% year-on-year decrease in the first five months of 2025, indicating a positive trend in drug crime governance [1][2]. - The overall decline in drug crime cases over the past decade reflects the effectiveness of China's drug control measures [1]. Group 2: Severe Punishments for Drug Crimes - The judiciary maintains a strict stance against severe drug crimes, as demonstrated by the death penalty for individuals like Su Mouhe and Wen Mouhong, who engaged in large-scale drug trafficking and violent resistance against law enforcement [3][4]. - The courts emphasize a "quantity + other circumstances" standard for sentencing, ensuring that punishments are commensurate with the severity of the crime [4]. Group 3: New Drug Crime Trends - New types of drug crimes are on the rise, with offenders utilizing advanced technology, the internet, and virtual currencies to facilitate drug trafficking, as seen in cases involving LSD and "smart drugs" [6][8][9]. - The emergence of new drugs disguised as everyday products poses significant risks, particularly to youth, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance and education [10][12]. Group 4: Protection of Minors - The judiciary is particularly focused on protecting minors from drug-related crimes, with cases involving the sale of drugs disguised as harmless products, such as "head-up e-cigarettes" and cough syrups, being prosecuted vigorously [10][11][12]. - The courts are taking a firm stance against individuals who target minors for drug sales, reflecting a commitment to safeguarding youth from the dangers of drug abuse [12][13].

Core Viewpoint - The Supreme People's Court highlighted the increasing issue of the abuse of narcotic and psychotropic drugs, particularly the illegal diversion of medical drugs into the drug market, as exemplified by the case of a hospital director involved in the illegal sale of a controlled substance [1][2][3] Group 1: Case Details - The defendant, Su, served as the director of a public hospital and exploited his position to illegally acquire and sell 536,180 tablets of a narcotic drug, with profits exceeding 1 million yuan [1][2] - Su sold approximately 380,000 tablets at prices ranging from 1.5 to 7 yuan each, primarily to unemployed individuals, facilitating the drug's entry into the illegal market [1][2] - The court found Su's actions constituted drug trafficking, given his awareness of the potential for abuse and the significant social harm caused by his actions [2][3] Group 2: Legal Consequences - Su was sentenced to death with a two-year reprieve, stripped of political rights for life, and ordered to forfeit all personal property due to the severity of his crimes [2][3] - The case underscores the serious legal repercussions for individuals in positions of authority who engage in illegal drug distribution, particularly in the context of increasing government crackdowns on drug-related crimes [2][3] Group 3: Industry Implications - The case reflects a broader trend where traditional drugs are becoming harder to obtain, leading some drug users to seek out medical narcotics as substitutes, raising concerns about the integrity of the healthcare system [2][3] - The dual nature of substances like fentanyl, which can be both a medication and a drug, poses significant risks to public health when diverted into illegal markets [3]