Gov’t introduces new rules targeting METH

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has formally introduced the Dangerous Drugs (Methylamphetamine) Rules 2025, strengthening national efforts to curb the possession, manufacture, and distribution of the illicit drug commonly known as “meth.”

The rules, signed by Minister for Health and Medical Services Hon. Dr Paul Popora Bosawai and gazetted on 5 November 2025, outline strict definitions for possession, supply, distribution, and manufacturing of methylamphetamine.

Under the new regulations, it is an offence for any person to possess, supply, distribute, or manufacture methylamphetamine without a proper licence or in breach of the Dangerous Drugs Act (Cap. 98) or the Pharmacy and Poisons Act (Cap. 105).

The rules clearly define possession to include having the drug on one’s body, clothing, personal belongings, vehicle, office, home, or any owned location. Supply and distribution are also broadly defined to include both small- and large-scale selling, providing raw materials, or transporting the substance.

Manufacturing is defined as mixing or preparing chemicals for the production of the drug.

Anyone found in breach of the new rules will face penalties and legal proceedings as provided under the Dangerous Drugs Act.

The issue came to the fore when Director of Public Prosecutions Andrew Kelesi highlighted a legal gap that made it difficult to arrest individuals alleged to be selling the drug. He told SBMOnline in August that under existing laws, it was not illegal to possess or even manufacture methylamphetamine in Solomon Islands. However, that has now changed following the gazettal on 5 November 2025.