Sentences for drugged driving under review

The Ministry of Public Security has been considering punishments and sentences for drug users who drive under the influence, said Liu Yuejin, director of the Narcotics Control Bureau, the Beijing Times reported.

More than 20,000 drug cases have been detected and about 100,000 addicts investigated amid a strict nationwide crackdown which began last month. The number of users has increased 38 percent compared to the same period last year.

Several crackdowns have attracted public attention, notably Jaycee Chan - Jackie Chan's son, Taiwan actor Kai Ko, and other celebrities.

The number of addicts holding driving licenses is on the rise calling for increased regulation, said Liu, while other crimes committed by addicts have grown sharply.

Having a different effect to opium or heroin, methamphetamine can lead to delusional persecution for regular users, which may cause addicts to become violent toward others.

More than 100 cases involving drug users becoming violent while under the influence have been reported in 14 provinces so far this year.