Border Force has made significant strides in combating drug trafficking, having intercepted a record quantity of ketamine at the UK border. Over the first quarter of 2026, officers successfully prevented nearly 1.3 tonnes of this hazardous substance from infiltrating communities nationwide.
During this period, a total of 1,298kg of ketamine was seized, marking a substantial 42% rise compared to the final quarter of 2025, in which approximately 915kg was intercepted before it could enter the UK unlawfully. This figure represents the highest quarterly total in 15 years, surpassing the previous record of 1,238kg seized in the second quarter of 2025.
The increase in seizures comes as concerns mount regarding the detrimental effects of ketamine misuse, particularly among the youth. Regular consumption of this drug can lead to severe and often irreversible health complications, including significant damage to the bladder and urinary tract. In extreme circumstances, misuse can result in fatal outcomes.
Major Seizures at Harwich International Port
At Harwich International Port alone, Border Force officers have confiscated 300kg of ketamine over the past twelve months. Notably, two substantial interceptions involving drivers arriving from the Hook of Holland occurred in February and May, yielding seizures of 100kg and 200kg respectively.
The recent statistics also underscore the extensive enforcement activities taking place at the border. In the first quarter of 2026, officers seized over 59,000 doses of nitrous oxide, a considerable increase from just over 35,000 doses in the preceding quarter. Additionally, more than 9,000kg of cocaine was intercepted during the same timeframe, while herbal cannabis constituted approximately 85% of all drug seizures by weight.
Government Response to Drug Trafficking
Home Office Minister Jo White has remarked on the record-breaking amount of ketamine seized, emphasising the dedication and professionalism of Border Force officers who tirelessly work to eliminate dangerous drugs from the streets.
Every seizure not only averts harm but also disrupts organised crime and safeguards families and communities throughout the UK. She noted that criminal gangs thrive on addiction and suffering, and the government remains resolute in its efforts to dismantle these networks.
As these criminal organisations evolve and new threats arise, the government’s response will be unwavering. The focus will remain on fortifying borders, targeting organised crime, and preventing harmful substances from reaching local communities.
International Cooperation Against Synthetic Opioids
This announcement coincides with the Home Secretary’s recent agreement with Five Eyes partners—comprising the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand—during the Five Country Ministerial in Sydney. The aim is to enhance the global response to the threat posed by synthetic opioids.
Synthetic opioids are considered among the most perilous drugs available, with substances like nitazenes being 50 to 500 times more potent than heroin, significantly increasing the risk of accidental overdose.
Their extreme potency renders even minute quantities challenging to detect and intercept. Between June 1, 2023, and June 5, 2025, over 1,000 confirmed deaths in the UK were attributed to synthetic opioids.
Strengthening Controls and Collaboration
Under the new agreement, the Five Eyes partners will enhance collaboration with industry and international organisations to target the criminal networks involved in the production and distribution of synthetic drugs and precursor chemicals.
Ministers have also committed to improved cooperation on regulation and intelligence sharing, aiming to strengthen controls on precursor chemicals, prevent their diversion into illicit supply chains, and disrupt the organised crime groups engaged in both production and trafficking.
Significant progress has been achieved regarding last year’s pledge to develop a synthetic opioid pills profiler. Initial iterations of this database are now operational within Border Force and law enforcement, bolstering frontline capabilities to identify and respond effectively to emerging threats posed by synthetic drugs.