The relationship of drugs, drug trafficking, and drug traffickers to homicide

An insight to prison sentencing of drug
trafficking offenders, comparing UK sentencing
to South American prison sentencing

TABLE OF CONTENT
INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................1
Background .................................................................................................................................1
Aim .............................................................................................................................................2
Objective .....................................................................................................................................2
Research questions ......................................................................................................................2
Rationale .....................................................................................................................................2
Significance of the study .............................................................................................................3
METHODOLGOY .........................................................................................................................4
Research type ..............................................................................................................................4
Research philosophy ...................................................................................................................5
Research approach ......................................................................................................................5
Research design ..........................................................................................................................6
Data collection and analysis ........................................................................................................6
Literature search strategy ............................................................................................................7
Ethical considerations .................................................................................................................8
LITERATURE REVIEW ...............................................................................................................9
Drug trafficking: An international definition ..............................................................................9
UK Perspectives on drug trafficking .........................................................................................10
Drug Trafficking and UK Prison sentencing.............................................................................10
Drug Trafficking in Colombia...................................................................................................12
Drug trafficking in Brazil...........................................................................................................13
Part of the world dealing best with issues..................................................................................14
DATA ANALYSIS .......................................................................................................................15
Data Analysis.............................................................................................................................15
Theme 1: Way drug trafficking is viewed and dealt with in UK:- ...........................................15
Theme 2: Drug Trafficking and UK Prison sentencing...............................................................1
Theme 4 : Drug trafficking in Brazil ..........................................................................................4
Theme 5: Contrast in policy and practices for drug trafficking prison sentencing......................6
CONCLUSION ...............................................................................................................................7

REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................11

ABSTRACT
This report is based on the prison sentencing relation to drug trafficking offenders, and
will compare UK sentencing with South American prison sentencing. In this report two South
American countries will be taken and will their prison sentences will be compared with UK.
Report will discuss about the international definition of drug trafficking and how drug trafficking
is being reviewed and dealt with UK. It will also discuss about the policies and strategies of
various these countries in order to deal with drug trafficking. In this report two countries
Colombia and Brazil will be taken and their policies and prison sentences will be compared with
that of UK.

TITLE: An insight to prison sentencing of drug trafficking offenders, comparing UK
sentencing to South American prison sentencing
INTRODUCTION
Background
Drug trafficking is defined as the black marketing of illegal or prohibited drugs
internationally. The global market of drug trafficking is associated with the manufacturing,
cultivation, sales or distribution of the drugs which are related to the drug prohibition laws.
There are several drugs whose trade is permitted only with license as they may be harmful for
the health and have serious implications. Some of the most common drugs which are used for
trafficking purpose includes cannabis, heroin, alcohol, methamphetamine, cocaine and
temazepam. Since these drugs have very high monetary value internationally, there is increasing
and long term trend of trading them illegally even when they are prohibited.
The drug trafficking not only affects the countries which produce or transit them, but also
to the nations in which these drugs are imported illegally (Wood, 2017). One of the key reason
due to which drug trafficking prohibition policies are made is societal impact of these drugs. The
addiction of these drugs leads to increase events of drug violence and crime rates. The
individuals which get addicted to these drugs suffers from severe health implications and easily
engaged in criminal activities. Thus, for assuring the safe, healthy and quality life of community,
especially young people, it is important that countries must have effective drug trafficking
policies.
With the huge profits and increasing demands of class A drugs, trafficking dealers are
exploring various ways to assure their continuous supply in the market. (Fleetwood, Radcliffe
and Stevens, 2015) The mere prisoning and chasing of such networks may not result in
regulating crime rates and trafficking of such products. The key drug trafficking policy adopted
by UK is to prohibit the exchange of drugs and to sentence the prison to smugglers, dealers as
well as importers who are involved in drug trafficking.
The addition to such drugs can have adverse impact on the development and growth of
young generation and children and thus, economic development is also influenced due to
increased crime rate and social imbalance due to violence and crimes. The drug trafficking is
becoming one of the key issue in UK and South America (Middleton, Antonopoulos and
Papanicolaou, 2019). However, there are various differences in the policy frameworks of these
1

countries. With the increasing global trade and technologies, the methods and ways of drug
trafficking are also getting advanced. Thus, there is high need that United Nations must analyse
its policy to identify the possible scope for the improvements so that future generations can be
prevented from this increasing threat. There is need to analyse the prison sentencing for these
cases of drug trafficking so that severity of issue can be controlled and improved.
Aim
To gain an insight to prison sentencing of drug trafficking offenders in UK and to
compare it with two South American countries.
Objective
 To understand the drug trafficking and its impact in UK.
 To analyse the various UK policies and case studies related to drug trafficking.
 To comparatively evaluate the Drug trafficking sentencing in UK with South American
countries, Colombia and Brazil.
Research questions
 Is UK harsh enough or is the time to served enough to prevent future smuggling and deter
others?
 What is the prevalence and severity of drug trafficking in UK?
 How effective drug trafficking policies and prison sentencing are of UK and South
America?
Rationale
Drug trafficking is becoming a serious threat for developing as well as developed
countries. The countries suffering from issues of poverty, economic instability and
unemployment are often easy target for the smugglers to develop a new business market for the
illegal drugs (Garcia, 2018). These drugs tends to have significant impact on the psychotic
reactions of individuals and thus contribute to increased crime rates. The prohibited drugs which
are smuggled illegally tend to have direct association with the violent crimes like kidnapping,
murder and rapid decline in health and economic status of the communities as well as nation.
One of the key reason which is responsible for causing drug violence is poor law
enforcement and regulations (Frederick, 2017). The economic instability and poor government
control over the transmission and distribution of the drugs can make it easy for the international
2

traders to indulge in drug trafficking without any fear. Thus key rationale for choosing this topic
as the research subject is that prison sentencing and legal framework for offenders of drug
trafficking can play a crucial role in managing and controlling the issue. Hence, it is very
essential that impact and effectiveness of prison sentencing must be evaluated. Another reason
for conducting this study that UK and South America both have been very powerful national in
the world. The drug trafficking issue has become a major threat and concerning matter for entire
world (Dolliver, 2015 ). Thus, the comparative study of the prison sentencing of both the nations
can provide crucial information and knowledge for addressing this global issue. With the
increasing interconnectivity and interactions between global boundaries, drug accessibility and
global abuse is increasing rapidly. It is the high need to address the issue of drug trafficking so
that political and economic instability, social crimes, damage to communities and their health
can be managed.
Significance of the study
Drug trafficking also results in social violence, money laundering, corruptions and for
creating drug addictions among young people or other communities. The trafficking routes are
also an easy medium for transporting illicit products and can also serve as easy pathway for the
terrorists as well. With advancing technology and transportation mediums, criminals are
exploring more creative and innovative approaches for transporting illegal drugs (Dolliver,
Ericson and Love, 2018). The legal system of UK and South America experiences several
challenges in enforcement of law and prison sentencing. Thus, the analysis and findings from the
study are very significant in developing good understanding of the problem so that problem
solutions can be determined and this global issues can be resolved. The study results will be
helpful in drawing suitable conclusions for improving the legal framework in UK. On the basis
of these conclusions, UK can evaluate that if the existing policies are effective enough or it need
considerable improvement.
America has been among one of the developed countries which are dealing with the drug
trafficking as major issue. Thus, comparative analysis of the UK sentencing with that of two of
American countries will be helpful and extremely significant in terms of suggesting necessary
recommendations (Desroches, 2017). The insight of prison sentencing in South America will
also help in identifying the loop holes in existing framework for preventing expansion of such
3

illegal network of drug distribution. In this way, the study is considered as significant in
controlling smuggling and to deter others from indulging in such activities.
The drug misuse is also one of the potential cause of deaths among young people. Due to
this reason, trafficking of drugs is considered as more serious crime than possessing drugs.
According to National Crime Agency, UK, deal lines for selling illegal drugs in UK has
increased from 720 to 2000 in just one year (Warrell and Alatise, 2019). The young boys of age
group 15 to 17 are easy target for the drug dealers and are mostly exploited by the drug gangs.
Thus, the study plays a very important role in creating awareness among young people that what
punishments they can get if they are found guilty in such practices (Antonopoulos and Hall,
2016). Study outcomes are vital in creating awareness and suggesting necessary improvements in
framework for prison sentencing so that drug trafficking crime can be managed and regulated.
METHODOLGOY
Research methodology is defined as the blue print for executing a research study in
systematic and proper way. The well defined approach to conduct a research is helpful in
improving the research outcomes. The research methods which are used for completion of this
research are as follows:
Research type
Research type describes the way in which research study utilises the data to draw the
relevant conclusions for achieving research objective. Research studies can be either qualitative
or quantitative type. The qualitative studies are based upon verbal narrative such as written or
spoken data and is usually non statistical study. On the other hand, quantitative studies are based
upon statistical and logical observations for determining the results and study outcomes (Taylor,
Bogdan and DeVault, 2015). In qualitative studies, ideas and concepts are explored using non
structured techniques such as group discussions and interviews. Quantitative studies are mainly
used for conducting the research studies in which it is required to determine the relation between
research variables through statistical analysis or the dependency. Quantitative studies employ
structured methods like questionnaires, surveys and observation for exploring the relations.
This study is of qualitative type as it aims at exploring the existing facts and trends of
prison sentencing in case of drug trafficking (Mackey and Gass, 2015). For this purpose, it will
utilise various qualitative facts and reports to understand the research subject. One of the
advantage of using qualitative study is that it can be conducted using existing literature and a
4

vast range of perspectives are available. It does not provide bias or personalised results as in case
of quantitative research.
Research philosophy
Research philosophy explains the ways or perspectives in which data collection and
analysis procedure must be executed in a study. Research philosophy is of three types namely:
realism, positivism and interpretivism. With the use of interpretivism philosophy, various
elements or the variable of the research are interpreted so that qualitative analysis can be
improved and performed with better efficiency. On other other hand, positivism philosophy is
defined as the approach in which scientific evidences like statistics and experiments are used to
describe any phenomenon and event. Realism philosophy aims at creating knowledge on the
basis of scientific facts so that reality can be independently extracted from the human
perspectives or mind. In this study, interpretivism philosophy is used so that a more effective
analysis of the data can be performed (Kumar, 2019). One of the advantage of using
interpretivism philosophy is that it helps in assessing the cross cultural differences and thus
comparative evaluation of UK and South American legal framework can be effectively and
accurately analysed through this philosophy.
Research approach
Research approach is known as the well-defined procedures and assumptions for
providing detailed insight of the data collection and analysis methods and ways to interpret the
data. Research studies can use inductive, deductive and abductive approaches for the study. In
inductive approach, various theories and existing trends are observed for exploring the relevant
conclusions for the study. In inductive approach observations are used to develop and explain the
theories and concepts (Flick, 2015). Thus, in this approach no hypothesis are used in the study.
Contrary to this, the research studies based on deductive approach develops hypothesis on the
basis of theories an then suitable research strategies are used for testing them.
Another research approach which can be used by researchers is known as abductive
approach in which drawbacks of both the other approaches are addressed. In deductive approach,
there is difficulty in choosing suitable theory for hypothesis testing while in inductive approach
there is unclarity in amount of empirical data used for the development of theory. In this study,
inductive approach is used because it gives an in-depth idea of existing theories so that valuable
and more precise conclusions can be drawn (Fletcher, 2017). Along with this advantage,
5

inductive approach is also valuable in terms of enhancing research experience in the from of data
collection, cost and time. The data collection process is more flexible and informative in case of
inductive approach and thus quality of research is also improved.
Research design
Research design is known as the methodological framework which provides a logical
integration of the various research problem. Thus, research design explain researchers way to use
a particular methodology for conducting research. The research can be accomplished using
various types of designs such as descriptive, exploratory and causal. The exploratory designs are
preferred for the studies in which instead of generalising information, end conclusions are
developed (Kumar, 2019). Exploratory research studies are used for the issues which needs to be
prioritised so that various perspectives of research issues can be explored and conclusive
decisions can be taken.
On the other hand, descriptive research studies aims at exploring and explaining the
information related to research topic. Descriptive studies helps to analyse the data in its natural
environment without changing the surrounding aspects of the research study. However, this
study design is preferred as pre cursor to quantitative studies. It is time-consuming and
expensive as well. Since this study does not uses quantitative analysis, descriptive research
design is not suitable for the research. The third type of research design is causal type which
demonstrate the cause and effect relationship. Causal study designs are helpful in providing in
depth and extreme fundamental information related to their topic chosen.
Casual research designs are highly expensive and more time is required to accomplish
such studies. These studies are beneficial in terms of providing replication if require. However,
the research subject of this project does not demands for the analysis of cause and effect
relationship and thus in this study, cause and effect design is not used (Flick, 2015). In this study,
exploratory design is used because this research design does not have any rigid structural or
experimental norms. Its flexibility and versatility also encourages the scope for future research.
The open ended nature of the exploratory research design is highly interactive so that various
perspectives can be explored in low cost.
Data collection and analysis
The process of gathering the research data from variety of sources is known as data
collection. The collected data is analysed through suitable approaches and analysis techniques.
6

The research data collection methods are of two types: primary and secondary data collection.
The primary collection methods includes methods in which researchers collect their data at their
own for the research. These methods includes questionnaires, interview, discussions and survey.
One of the advantage of primary data collection method over secondary is that it helps to access
and collect real time data instead of data from the previous studies.
Though, primary data collection methods are expensive and time consuming, they tend to
provide highly specific results for the analysis as per the needs of researcher. On the other hand,
in secondary data methods the researchers review and analyses the research work which has been
done by other scholars or researchers. For secondary data analysis, sources On the other hand, in
secondary data methods the researchers review and analyses the research work which has been
done by other scholars or researchers. such as books, articles, research papers and journals are
used (Walliman, 2017). Apart from the advantage of having economic feasibility, the key benefit
of using secondary data for the study is that contrary to the primary methods, secondary
approach provides more refined form of data. Thus, it is very convenient to draw the conclusions
and findings.
Primary and secondary data can be qualitative as well as quantitative. The analysis of
quantitative data is performed by using statistical tools and investigation such as SPSS or
statistical approaches. Quantitative data analysis is preferred when studies aim to derive the
mathematical relation between research variables. This study analyses qualitative data and thus,
various themes are developed on the basis of themes identified in the literature review section.
In this study, secondary data collection methods are used because these are very quick
and easy to access. Since the research topic includes the aspects of UK and two other American
countries, it is not economically feasible to conduct a primary data collection. Instead the use of
government publications, reports other secondary sources may provide more relevant and
accurate data along with the economic and time feasibility. The reason behind this is that
government does not reveal proper information which can be collected for the research.
Literature search strategy
The study uses secondary sources for the data collection process. Thus, the research
quality greatly depends upon the literature searched for the review. It is very essential for the
researchers to adopt a suitable literature search study so that good quality secondary sources can
be chosen for the study (Cuervo‐Cazurra and et.al., 2017). The secondary sources chosen for the
7

study are searched using various searching platforms such as Google Scholar, Emerald insight
and case study reports of both UK and South America. For the searching purpose, specific search
terms will be used. The use of highly specific and boolean searching techniques by combining
various key words can result in improved quality of the search results.
Different keywords such as drug trafficking, UK regulations for drug trafficking, Prison
sentencing for drug trafficking in UK and America, Drug smuggling regulations and
punishments in Brazil and Colombia are used for the study purpose. In order to enhance the
accuracy and effectiveness of the research, it is also important to assure that secondary sources
chosen for the research are authentic and relevant. To assure this, only those sources of data are
chosen which are not less than 5 years old and which are written in English language.
The secondary sources which are based upon drug trafficking regulations in countries
other than UK and America are also neglected so that research objre this, only those sources of
data are chosen which are not less than 5 years old and which are written in English language.
ective can be achieved and comparative perspective of regulations in America and United
Kingdom can be obtained. For the selection of studies, several other aspects such as relevancy,
authenticity, currency, purpose and accuracy parameters are also judged. A well defined
literature search strategy has been prioritised in the entire research so that suitable themes can be
developed and analysis results meet the quality standard.
Ethical considerations
Ethical considerations are not only desirable for the primary studies, but they are equally
important for the secondary researches as well. Ethical guidelines provide essential
considerations which must be taken into account while conducting a research. Secondary
researches are based upon the studies chosen through literature searre this, only those sources of
data are chosen which are not less than 5 years old and which are written in English language.
ch. Thus, ethics must be considered while choosing a particular secondary source. When any
secondary source is chosen and used for the analysis and research purpose, then it must be given
credit. This can be done by referencing the secondary source. The proper reference and citation
assures the credibility and authority of the resource.
Another important ethical consideration for the study is that data analysed from the
secondary sources must not be misleading or misinterpreted. The inaccurate or falsified
misinterpretation of the secondary information is highly unethical. Such falsification can mislead
8

the study outcomes and results. The research outcomes depends upon relevancy and accuracy of
the studies selected for the research (Mackey and Gass, 2015). Thus, it is the ethical
responsibility of researcher to check the accuracy and validity of the secondary sources which
are chosen for the study. For this purpose, the researcher use suitable tools such as CRAAP test
(Currency, relevancy, authority, accuracy and purpose). This tool will assure that the findings
and analysis extracted in the study is precise and ethically acceptable.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Drug trafficking: An international definition
According to Fleetwood, Radcliffe and Stevens, (2015), drug trafficking can be defined
as global illicit trade which involves manufacture, cultivation, sale and distribution of substances
which are subjected to drug prohibition laws. The issue has been one of the major concern for the
international communities. Trafficking across international boundaries is one of the fundamental
element of illicit drug trade. The aim of drug traffickers is to supply these drugs without being
caught red handed. The drug trafficking has strong association with the violence, murder and
other crimes. The drug trafficking issue has affected various countries such as Mexico,
Colombia, UK Golder Triangle in Asia and US. Apart from the charges for drug possession,
trafficking also includes actions such as purchasing, sales, delivery and manufacturing of the
controlled substances.
As per the view of Hall and Antonopoulos, (2017), in the international frontier drug
trafficking, is not restricted to only illegal drugs which are banned by the government
authorities. Instead drug trafficking also covers distribution of the prescription drugs like
hydrocodone products and opioids. The legal penalties for involvement in drug trafficking varies
on the basis of type of drug and the amount. For instance, along with the quantity of drug
trafficking, penalties and prison sentencing also differs to a great extent depending upon drug
type. Like in different countries, there are significant level of differences in smuggling of heroin
or marijuana which are most common drugs involved in trafficking.
The conviction of drug trafficking can also results in termination of federal benefits or
even civil rights. Cook, (2018) elucidated that the encouragement and liberal attitude towards
trafficking practices has adverse impact upon the development of nation and social balance. In
the wake of increasing corruption, violence and murders and strong correlation of drug
trafficking with human trafficking international organisations such as United Nations are also
9

having policies for the issue. Since, the issue is international threat for the countries, UN
conventions on drug trafficking suggests measures to manage the drug trafficking issue. Lydgate
and Winters, (2019) stated that for assuring the safe future of generations and healthy economy,
drug trafficking must be bring into actions instead of theoretical framework for drug control.
Contrary to this, Coomber and Moyle, (2017) argued that the economy is also one of the factor
affecting drug trafficking. There are nations which are in great need to support anti drug
trafficking frameworks but they do not have sufficient resources. On the other hand, the flexible
legislative framework of some economy also encourages drug trafficking indirectly so that
economy can be supported by revenues. For instance, in strong economy such as US anti drug
framework are not much costly to gain the benefits. While on the other side some nations may
face financial losses in the cost of development of compliance framework to prohibit trafficking.
International drug trafficking are subjected to death penalties as well as sentence imprisonment
from 8-30 years.
UK Perspectives on drug trafficking
According to Stark, Kidd and Sykes, (2018), United Kingdom has well defined and
transparent strategy for dealing with explicit drugs. The UK drug strategy is based upon three
aims which are “reducing demands”, “aiding recovery” and “restricting supply”. The key motive
of UK is to make individuals free from the addiction of these harmful drugs. Due to this reason,
many drug individuals involved in possession of such drugs are provided with voluntary drug
treatment instead of prison. However, the possession and other form of drug trafficking is
considered to be illegal in UK but it has less severe penalty as compare to that involved in the
transporting or trafficking the drugs. In the same context Limoncelli, (2016), staR v PC –
Conspiracy to Supply Class A Drugsted that for controlling and preventing the drug trafficking
across the borders, UK drug policy also has strict clauses and approaches to seize the drugs at
border. For this purpose, UK policies also aims at disrupting market and encourages partnership
with international communities or nations so that drug producing nations can be dealt with.
Before 2012, prison sentencing in UK for drugR v PC – Conspiracy to Supply Class A Drugs
trafficking included long custodial sentences (Fleetwood, Radcliffe and Stevens, 2015). However
after 2012, UK has adopted the precedent or judgement based sentencing practice. The current
policies for drug sentencing also recognises the mitigating factors and the role of offender in
trafficking issue. UK has introduced various drug related policies and strategies in the country
10

and the latest one was introduced in 2010 which is named as drug strategy policy which is a R v
PC – Conspiracy to Supply Class A Drugspolicy that continues to move away from drug crime
links and focuses on problematic drug use. Also, it has introduced international policy
framework that involves the possession and market of illicit drugs in the country (Drug policy,
2018). There was a drug supply case in UK which R V Pc conspiracy to supply Class A drugs. It
was a large scale conspiracy for supplying class A drugs which involved 14 defendants. They
had to face a lengths trial court and were charged by the criminal law act 1977. UK deals the
issue as per the class of drugs a person is involved in.
Drug Trafficking and UK Prison sentencing
As illustrated by Fleetwood, Radcliffe and Stevens, (2015), one of the major problem of
country line in drug operations is that organised criminals make use of young people to crack
cocaine and courier heroin form urban centres to other regions. This has increased the sale of
drugs and has increased violence in the country. Young people aged 15 to 17 years are R v PC –
Conspiracy to Supply Class A Drugsgroomed as well as exploited by the drug gangs which use
untraceable mobile phones which is known as deal lines for taking orders. It has also been
suggested by the researchers that there are approximately 10,000 children which are involved in
drug trafficking across the UK which also includes some young children of age 11. But there has
been various joint police operations which has resulted in disrupting of country line gangs and
have resulted in the seizure of more than 140 weapons. Also, there has been involvement of more
than 600 children and 400 vulnerable children in the drug supply in order to direct safeguard
support. With UK, Liverpool is the one of the major drug trafficking hubs as its gangs are
considered as one of the big players of British Drug Trade. In the study of Liverpool, Tommy
Comerford was the top most identified by the customs in 70s and was later on arrested by then
top anti-drug team. Within UK, drug gangs normally lure children in selling of drugs by
motivating them that they will not be punished by law if they were coerced. This has forced
Britain to review its 2015 legislation with an aim of criticising as UK has not been used properly
jailing or providing prison sentencing the drug traffickers in order to stop such business and
support the victims involved.
As elucidated by Tompkins, (2016), drug offence is considered as very complex and for
every case it is different. If someone is found guilty for supplying Class C drugs, most probable
punishment is that individual will only receive a fine. There are different drug sentencing
11

guidelines for such offences in UK. Drug offence are divided into 3 classes such as Class A,
Class B and Class C. If an individual is caught in drug trafficking of Class A drugs like cocaine,
heroin, ecstasy, LSD etc, and maximum prison sentence which can be issued by the law is life
imprisonment. Similarly, if any individual is caught in trafficking of Class B drugs which
includes, cannabis, ketamine, amphetamines, codeine, cannabinoids etc, a person can be
sentenced for 14 years of custody in jail or can be imposed of unlimited fine. The offence range
involved in such case is ten years if custodial sentence. If any person is involved in trafficking of
Class C drugs such as benzodiazepines, anabolic steroids, khat, gamma-butyrolactone etc then,
individual will be charged with unlimited fine and 14 years of custody. The offence range for
trafficking of such drugs is a fine and or eight years of custodial sentence. It is to be noted that
starting point can be established by the class of the drugs but on the other hand final sentence
will be imposed on the factors like harm associated with the offence, defendant's culpability and
any additional mitigating and aggravating factors.
Drug Trafficking in Colombia
As per the views of Padovani, (2016), illegal drug trade within Colombia is related to the
practices of Colombian criminal groups which are involved in the producing as well as
distributing of drugs within the country. Colombia normally has 4 major drug trafficking cartel
as well as various bands criminals which have created new social class in the country and have
influenced various aspects of culture in Colombia. It is the one of the largest producers of
cocaine and also produce heroin bound for US. So, within the country, it has adopted
Counternarcotics policy which has been a key component for US-Colombian relationship.
According to this policy US is willing to fund various initiatives in order to eradicate the drug
trafficking within the Colombia. Also, in the year 2015, counternarcotics policy shifted to Public
Health Approach and this type of shift was influenced by a broad hemispheric trends in order to
reform the anti-drug practices to reduce human rights violation. Colombia has various illegal
groups which have been benefited from the narcotic trafficking which ranged from large cartels
from the last century which was manly led by Pablo Escobar. It began to sell drugs in1990s, but
later it was fully disarticulated by Colombian authorities in 2012. So, Columbian partnership
with US has broadened their plans in order to eradicate drug trafficking and has put more
emphasis on Counternarcotics and addressing the humanitarian concerns.
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As per the views of Motta-Costa, Rudinicki and Goldani, (2018), in 20th century
Colombian drug policies has been increasingly repressive and were proving effective which were
influenced by the international legal frameworks. In the last decade of 20th century, drug
trafficking became important for Colombian society and for the economy. So, country followed
the agenda which was developed by US, which is fight on drugs internally i.e. War On Drugs. It
has introduced some harsh policies such as zero tolerance measures which has helped in putting
end to organised criminal networks. There are various sentencing for different conducts of drug
trafficking like maintaining and financing plantations involves a penalty of imprisonment of 96
to 216 months and a fine of 266.66 to 2.250 Colombian pesos. If a person is involved in
manufacturing or trafficking or possession drugs the penalty involved in such case is
imprisonment of 128 to 260 months and or fine of 1,333.33 to 50,000 SMLMV if owns drugs
without permission. If the drug amount does not exceed more than 1,000 grams prison terms is
64 to 108 months and or 2.66 to 150 SMLMV. If drugs exceeds the maximum amount then the
prison term is 96 to 144 months and or fine of 133.33 to 1500 SMLMV (Rodrigo and Diana.,
2019).
Drug trafficking in Brazil
As illustrated by Iturralde, (2016), Brazil forms a part of international drug routes which
supply marijuana and arms which are employed by criminals that are mostly produced locally.
There has been increase in domestic drug consumption within the Brazil in recent years which
has effected its domestic drug markets and has also changed the profile, structure as well as
modes of operations of various organised drug crime groups. Brazil has adopted new drug law in
2006 with an intention to make a distinction between drug dealers and drug users. So, this has
resulted in the discriminatory culture in the justice system that has been combined with high
discretion which is given to authorities for classifying the offences as drug trafficking which has
resulted in rise of imprisonments to addicts. Also, Brazil has introduced innovative programs
such as Bracos Abertos and Sao Paulo programs in order eradicate drug trafficking but is facing
huge challenges for the success. This policy was passes by Brazil ten years ago, by replacing the
jail sentences for drug users with penalties which included community services and have
increased the penalties for the drug trafficking cases. But this policy did not prove successful as
there has been increase in the Brazil's prison population. One of the famous Brazilian drug dealer
Roberto was held in Curado prison, police have detained him in the year 2013 after recovering
13

15 gm of marijuana of price 50 reais which is $15. There were differences in police officers
statements during trials and there was only one evidence against him which was that testimony
any other person who was accused of drug trafficking in a case and one child who said Roberto
owned the drugs. Based on these claims against him and was involved in small amount of drugs
so, trial judges sentenced him 4 years jail for drug trafficking.
As per the views of Angelo, (2017), within the 2006 law, various drug users who
consumed drugs have been prosecuted for being rug traffickers. This was due to the fact that law
did not set a minimum quantity of drugs which can differentiate between drug traffickers and
drug users. This law has failed to stop criminal organisations and this resulted in increase in the
violent crimes in Brazil from the past decade. By criminalising the drug use, production as well
as distribution of drugs has only increased the growth of criminal organisations in the country
and has increased the number of imprisonment cases (Fleetwood, Radcliffe and Stevens, 2015).
So, there has been a huge failure of Brazilian policy related to drug trafficking and from the year
2007 to 2012 there has been increase in number of drug related incarcerations which
increaseBracos Abertos and Sao Paulo programs from 60,000 to 134,000 i.e. 123% rise (Paula,
2019.). Also, drug traffickers has involved a huge number of children and youth in the drug
trafficking job like carriers of drugs inside their bodies, packaging of drugs, drug sales person,
police watching, etc. Out of total which were incarcerated, 53% of them were girls and 44% of
them were boys which were involved in the drug trafficking, i.e. carrying and selling of drugs
which is the most common activities among them. Brazilian have adopted a restrictive war on
drugs which has resulted in various social, legal as well as ethical consequences. Government
has been tough on crime which has resulted in changes in Brazil's national legislation that have
resulted in weakening of civil protections and has also weakened civil liberties. As per the
reports of Brazilian Integrated Penitentiary Information System, there has been 27% percent
increase in the convictions under drug trafficking penalties (Paula, 2019). So, this suggests that
various policies which were formulated by Brazilian government to decrease the crime of drug
trafficking has failed for the government and for the country. Under the law 2006 which permits
the range of penalties for the drug users and drug addicts, which ranges from the warnings about
the effects of using drugs to the imprisonment. Judge can deliver a verbal warning and can levy
fines who so ever refuses for consuming or dealing in drugs without any sort of justification. But
14

on the other hand, the law has been made strict for drug traffickers which has increased the
imprisonment form 3 to 5 years to 15 years.
Part of the world dealing best with issues
As illustrated by Ghodse, (2016), fighting with the crime related to drug trafficking is a
matter of concern to all the countries which are poorly hit by it and it has become really
important to deal with this issue effectively. Different countries are formulating different policies
and penalties to deal with this issue. Colombia has established Counternarcotics policy in
partnership with US in order to reform its anti-drug practices within the country in order to
reduce the drug related crimes within the country. But, it has not stopped the criminals from drug
trafficking but has been successful to impose some harsh policies within the country like Zero
tolerance measure to put end to organised crimes. On the other hand, the policies which has been
adopted by Brazil has been a total failure and the policies adopted have restricted the Civil
protections and civil liberty. They have also failed to decrease the drug trafficking activities but
it has increased the number of imprisonment within the country. There has also been increase in
the involvement of young children in drug trafficking also country has made its laws strict for
drug trafficker. As illustrated by Másmela and Tickner, (2017) UK has got the best policy and
penalties for dealing with this issue in a better way as there has been increase in youth
involvement in drug use and drug trafficking, it has divided the penalties on the basis of Class A,
Class B and Class C drugs and punishes and fines the convicts on the basis of drugs used or
trafficking it. So, this is the best of solving the drug trafficking issue within the country as it
ranges from several months of imprisonment to life imprisonment based on the class of drug
trafficking an individual is involved in.
Colombia has Set Counternarcotics policy in partnership with US in order to reform its
anti-drug practices within the country for reducing the drug related crimes within the country.
Policies which has been adopted by Brazil like Bracos Abertos and Sao Paulo programs has
been a total failure and the policies adopted have restricted the Civil protections and civil liberty
and also failed to decrease the drug trafficking activities but it has increased the number of
imprisonment within the country. Contrary to them UK has well structured policies related to
drugs by issuing imprisonment and fines based on the class of drugs.
15

DATA ANALYSIS
Data Analysis
Data analysis is a process of interpreting the data by considering various statistical and
analytical tools to find the fruitful information and to assist business decision making. In other
words, data analysis is considered as the science of evaluating raw data in relation to draw
various conclusions about the concerned information. For the purpose of conducting effective
data analysis following themes have been prepared:-
Drug trafficking: An international definition
It can be analysed from the secondary research that there has been various definitions on
drug trafficking but one the best definition of drug trafficking is that it can be referred as a global
illicit of trading of drugs which involve cultivation, manufacture, sale, distribution of illegal
substances which is subjected ot prohibArialition of drug laws. Drug trafficking is considered as
one of the major issue in the world and it takes place inside the countries and across the
countries. Within drug trafficking it is the aim of a drug trafficker to supply drugs without
getting caught. It can also analysed that drug trafficking also results in other types of violence in
the society. There are various factors which results in drug trafficking such as lots of money
involved in it, addiction etc which is major factors that forces the people in this crime.
Theme 1: Way drug trafficking is viewed and dealt with in UK:-
Drug trafficking in UK is a huge source of revenues for properly formulated crime
groups. Therefore, actions or punishments against drug trafficking has also a disruptive effect on
criminal activities which are properly organized. According to National Crime Agency the
number of 'deal lines' used by citizens of UK to sell drugs has been tripled over the past years
and such number has been increased from 720 to approx 2000 and is also constantly growing day
by day. The National Crime Agency also revealed that the issue of drug trafficking has raised in
scale and violence as the professional criminals in UK use innocent young people to traffic
cocaine and courier heroin from urban areas to the regions. The boys aged 15 to 17 are more
likely to be exploited and groomed by drug gangs as they use such mobile phone lines that are
untraceable which are also known as deal lines, to take orders. The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, is
the main law which regulates the Issue of drug control in UK. It classifies controlled substances
into thee sections which offers a base for associating penalties for offences.
16

The various forms of drugs that are imported from overseas and are trafficked through
various routes in UK which includes through Yachts and small boats, Airline passengers, Light
aircraft, Vehicle traffic, Container shipping and via post and fast deliveries. Drug Trafficking
includes great risk as it impacts the lives and welfare of the citizens. However, there is often
competition between rival crime groups at all the stages included in the supply and production of
drugs. There is also corruption at each and every step of drug supply chain i.e. through the use of
airport officials and corrupt port. Generally the organized crime groups of UK which are
included in drug trafficking are also involved in various criminal activities and all the profits
generated from illegal drugs are used to run various other criminal functions such as financing
terrorism and buying illegal firearms.
According to Salvation Army, Human traffickers in UK are increasingly taking alcohol
and drugs for forcing and controlling vulnerable women and men into slave labour and
exploitation across the country. Many of the citizens who became the target of these traffickers
were homeless and had existing alcohol and drugs addiction and these traffickers used their
addiction to threaten them into prostitution, forced labour and criminal exploitation such as
forced bagging or selling drugs. However, the Salvation Army has also described the ways that
traffickers are aiming the potential victims which includes 'cuckooing' where the drug dealers try
to get frank with the vulnerable addicts and deliver them with narcotics before they go to their
homes.
17

Theme 2: Drug Trafficking and UK Prison sentencing
Unauthorized supply of addictive drugs is illegal in UK and laws related to this area are
extremely complex in European countries especially in UK. Whether, a person is charged for
supply, possession, large scale distribution or production of illegal substances, it is an extremely
offensive crime in UK. Prison sentencing is more likely to be severe in UK if anyone is found to
be supplying drugs which may include dealing, sharing or selling of drugs.
As per the above statistics, drug trafficking in UK was maximum from years 2008 to
2012 and since 2012, it has been continuously decreasing but it was minimum in year 2003 and
since then it has been increasing continuously. Because of this increase in drug trafficking from
2003, various laws had been made and improvement in existing laws had been done in order to
reduce drug trafficking.
Illustration 1: Drug trafficking in UK Statistics from 2003 to 2019

Prison sentencing completely depends upon type and factors of drug trafficking like: first is type
and quality of drugs involved. Second is blame or harm associated with the offence. Supplying
or importing A class drug such as cocaine can result in prison sentencing of at least 10 to 20
years or even lifetime sentence. If a person is found supplying or dealing with drugs near schools
or colleges, then it is considered as an aggressive offence due to which prison sentencing of the
drug trafficker can increase which can have several implications. Prison sentencing from
different class of drugs have different sentencing such as:
Class A Drugs: Cocaine, crack cocaine, LSD, heroin, ecstasy, methadone, magic mushrooms,
methamphetamine Maximum prison sentencing: Lifetime imprisonment
 Offence range: community order- custodial sentencing 14 years.
Class B Drugs: Barbiturates, amphetamines, ketamine, codeine, cannabis, synthetic cannabinoids,
methylphenidate and synthetic cathinones. Maximum prison sentencing: 14 years of custody and unlimited fine
 Offence range: Fine plus 10 years custodial sentencing
Class C Drugs: Anabolic steroids, gamma-butyrolactone, gamma hydroxybutyrate,
benzodiazepines, khat and piperazines. Maximum prison sentencing:14 years of custody and unlimited fine.
 Offence range:Fine plus 8 years custodial sentencing.
This establishment and defining of drug classes was done so that prison sentences can be
defined in an easy manner. Other than this, role of the accused criminal in the offence also plays
a vital role in deciding their prison sentence like: If the accused plays a leading role in drug
trafficking case then accused will be sentenced accordingly. If the accused plays a significant
role in the crime i.e. having an understanding and awareness of scale of operations or if the
accused was aware of the crime or understood the scale of crime or operation then also they are
prison sentenced accordingly. Only in one condition accused is given the least prison sentencing
i.e. when the accused had lesser role in the crime i.e. they were unaware of the crime they were
doing. Other than this, the amount of drug trafficking done also plays an important role in it.
2

Theme 3: Drug trafficking in Colombia
It has been analysed from the secondary research that approximately 4% of
world's population are consuming cocaine in their life and mostly 70 percent of cocaine which is
consumed globally comes from the Colombia. Within the Colombia, coca is been used in order
to produce cocaine which is grown normally in the remote parts of the country which
government has the less control over them. Due to the lack of control from the state in such
areas, majority of the land is available for various kinds of informal and illegal activities. Also,
due to the low control over these areas, state has been lenient with the drug trafficking
sentencing in such drug trafficking cases. Also, cocaine which is produced in Colombia is
producing havoc in within the Pacific which is the matter of concern. It can also be analysed that,
for cultivation of cocaine in the country, poor farmers are involved in it and forms the lifeline or
is the source of their income. This has also been a major reason, that state has been unable to put
control over the production of cocaine in the country. The drugs which arise from the Colombia
is in different ways in the Pacific, drugs come through drug mules on commercial fights,
shipping containers and some is sailed over the sea. It can also be analysed that Colombia has
allied with US in the global war on drugs but this relationship has become rocky as both the
countries has not been able to put control on drug trafficking within the country and outside the
country. Colombia has been using various strategies in the country in order to eradicate the drug
trafficking crime and also used various policies in order to achieve this objective. One of the
major policy which have been developed by the Country is anti-narcotics policy. The outcome of
this policy was that various zone where paramilitaries have been demobilized, border areas
where generally contained and the areas where insurgent groups have been retreated, but they
continued to be concentrated on these areas. Also, it can be analysed that with the integration of
armed conflict and illicit as well as criminalisation of coca growers, government of Colombia
has blurred the distinction between the combatants and the civilians which has further
humanitarian crisis in the country.
It can be analysed from the secondary research that within Colombia, who so ever is
involved in the drug trafficking case, government has set three different sentences for that
person. Among all of them, the most serious case is that if a person is involved in trafficking
more than 10 kg of marijuana, 60 grams of poppy, 2 Kg of cocaine he or she will be sentenced
for 10 to 30 years of imprisonment. Also, if an individual is carrying a drugs more than 1000 kg
3

of marijuana, 2 kg of poppy based drugs or 5 kg of cocaine, the prison sentence which is set for
that person is 23 to 30 years. Also, it has been analysed within the country, drug trafficking
prison sentencing also varies which is based on the quantity of drugs held.
From the above table it can be analysed that there are different forms prison sentence
which are set by different countries in which Colombia has the harsh prison sentences set for
drug trafficking. On the hand it has been analysed that within the country like Colombia these
laws are not normally working, as there has been uninterrupted growth in the drug trafficking
cases in the country as it has established a law where it allows to punish the people who traffic
the drugs and people who attempt to traffic the drugs this has resulted in the many humanitarian
cases in the country.
It can be interpreted from the secondary research that though Colombia had developed
various policies and laws in order to eradicate drug trafficking within the country. On the other
hand, these policies and laws has not been successful for the country to prevent drug trafficking
cases in various parts of the country. Also, it can be interpreted form the secondary research that
Colombia has established high prison sentences for the drug trafficking cases but even, it has not
been able to decrease the cases of drug trafficking or cultivation within the country. Also, it can
be interpreted from the secondary research that, the policies and the strategies which has been
adopted by Colombia are not compact enough, but it has been able to established high prison
sentences for drug traffickers but is not proving to be successful.
Theme 4 : Drug trafficking in Brazil
Drug trafficking is a major occurred crime in Brazil, around total of 27% inmates are
result of drug trafficking charges. In recent time from 2007 – 2012 the total number of inmates
increased from 60,000 to 1,34,000; a total of 123% increased. Since 2006 use of cannabis
include measures of public use of illegal drugs. Selling, transportation and trafficking of drugs is
considered as criminal act punishing the defendant with 5-15 years of prison and a significant
4

amount of fine. A total of 325 youth incarcerated where total 44% of boys and 53% of girls were
reported in the involvement of the crime. The most common drug in Brazil is marijuana, cocaine
and crack with a ratio of 74% smoking marijuana, 36 % snorting cocaine and 21% using crack.
Youth held low position in hierarchy and indulged in low level and short term activities where
51% of youth posses a gun into trafficking business and 58% are consumer of the same.
The Rousseff administration made change in 2006 for the act considering consumers and
suppliers of drugs different. To an extent, the consumption of these drugs are decriminalized but
sale of drugs still a crime, but till time this law is not clearly defined. The critics as former UN
secretary Kofi Anan and former president of Brazil Cardoso ignored the approach of war and
involved military in counterproductive. Furthermore, they can face counterproductive approach
where they propose legalization of drugs starting of with demineralization of Marijuana and
further Cocaine cultivation. The approach worked under the failure of War approach.
Further, it will prevent Brazil current mass incarceration problems funnelling youth from
gang memberships. A clear division on drug policy persists between government and civil
society advocacy groups. Brazil's NGO's are working with Global Drug Commission along with
the advocates to reform laws and public policies on marijuana and other drugs aiming to create
social, political and cultural contexts where Brazilian civilians can express freely on drug policy,
promising transparent, effective and pragmatic elaboration including laws and policies respecting
the citizenship and general rights of the civilians. The government of Brazil is distanced from
discussion on drugs discrimination or legalization.
At the time of 2014, discussion on drugs were eliminated by the candidates of the
elections as they are no longer interested in reforming the current drug law. The extreme high
drug violence rates, increased homicide and property crimes in Brazil developed the need for
change. The review of global counternarcotics regime at UNGASS 2016 implemented
opportunity advancing process of change for Brazil's domestic approach for drug policies.
Theme 5: Contrast in policy and practices for drug trafficking prison sentencing
It can be analysed from the secondary research that different countries of the world have
adopted different polices and practices for drug trafficking in order to put control over them. But
the policies and strategies adopted by the country does not always prove to be successful. So,
based on the analysis of the secondary research, it can be said that out the three countries like
United Kingdom, Colombia and Brazil the best polices, practices and strategies adopted is by the
5

country United Kingdom. One the basic reason behind this is that the policy which has been
adopted by UK is that its government has set the imprisonment sentences on the basis of class of
drug trafficking a person is involved in. This has restricted the growth of drug trafficking within
the country as there were various legislations set in the country which resulted in slowing the rate
of drug trafficking.
Also, UK's prison sentencing varies as per the class of drug trafficking a person is
involved in, and it raged from fine to life imprisonment sentences i.e. from Class C to Class A
drugs. This is the strategy which was adopted by the country in order to put control on drug
trafficking and it somehow proved to be successful for the country and also prevented youth to
get involved in the drug trafficking cases. On the hand, it can also analysed for the secondary
research that Colombia has also formulated various polices and strategies in order to deal with
drug trafficking and to put control over them. It major policy of anti-narcotics has not proven to
be successful in stopping the drug related crimes in the country.
Though, it has been able to develop harsh penalties in order to stop people from drug
trafficking cases in the country and its imprison sentencing ranged minimum 23 years to 30
years. Also, it has been analysed that country has designed a punishment similar for the people
who are involved in trafficking large quantities of drugs and the people who simply attempt to
traffic the drugs. But, still they have not been able to catch drug trafficker and has not been able
to stop the cocaine cultivation in the remote areas of the country. It can also be analysed that
Brazil has adopted new drug laws and policies like an intention to make distinction between drug
dealers and drug users and also have introduced various innovative programs in order to
eradicate drug trafficking in the country. There has no such harsh polices implemented in the
country which could stop drug trafficking cases. There has been increase in cases of
incarcerations in Brazil and increase the number of prisoners in country. So, it can be interpreted
out of three countries UK, Colombia and Brazil, UK has comparably the best policies and the
strategies for dealing with the drug trafficking cases in the country.
CONCLUSION
It can be concluded from the study that drug trafficking is an international issue and it is
required to formulate effective control and sentencing policies. The sentences varies greatly from
6

one country to other as well as from type of drug offences. The prison sentencing in UK is
primarily based upon the type and amount of drug which is being involved in trafficking. Thus
there is wide rang of extent of punishment for trafficking, possession, supply as well as drug
dealing. It can be considered that the existing drug control policies of UK are satisfactory enough
to make critical judgements about the severity of drug offence so that others can be deter from
drug trafficking.
Due to the strict monitoring and regulations, the drug consumption in UK has also
reduced limiting the trafficking cases as compare to Brazil and Colombia. The acts such as drug
misconduct in UK are playing significant role in reducing the events of drug trafficking. The
Brazil is considered to be one of the biggest source as well as consumer of illegal drugs. This is
one of the reason that it provides a hub for the drug trafficking routes. Though, Brazil is also
having various policies and regulations for sentencing imprisonment but in comparison to UK its
policies can be considered as less influencing and impactful.
However the drug control policies are not able to effectively distinguish between types of
drug offence. For instance since Brazil is the highest consumer of illegal drugs and centre for
drug trafficking uniform punishments are given to all the offenders. The individuals trafficking,
consuming or possessing class A drug or class C drugs irrespective of the amount are given same
punishment. As a result of this, there is highest number of imprisons in Brazil. It imposes
another challenge of managing such individuals and to maintain law and order. Since with
increasing imprisonments people are finding it easy to get punished and to then to find solutions
to escape from the punishment after few years. This is one of the reason which does not create
any kind of fear among offenders.
Contrary to this, UK prison sentencing has separate regulations for each kind of offence.
Drug consumers, suppliers and traffickers all have different and clear punishments. Thus it
becomes hard for the individuals to search for any legal loophole to prevent from the
punishments. This is one of the reason that a more controlled and systematic law and order is
observed in United Kingdom. It has been also analysed form the discussion that UK drug
trafficking policies are effective enough to deter others from drug trafficking. Despite being
higher vulnerability of drug trafficking due to highest production of drugs in Colombia, their
policies and sentencing framework are ineffective.
7

In terms of prison sentencing, Colombia has laws to provide a sentence of 30 years to
drug traffickers which is maximum among UK and Brazil. However, since the economy of
Colombia is supported by production of these drugs, the anti narcotics policy are not monitored
or effectively implemented. Colombia is also having collaboration with United States for
preventing drug trafficking but due to lack of effective implementation of these policies and
sentence imprisonment, drug trafficking is regularly increasing in Colombia. It has been also
evaluated from the data analysis that despite increasing number of imprisonments in Brazil for
drug traffickers, there is no improvements or change observed in the management of drug
trafficking issue. Similarly, with the support from partnership with US, Colombia has effective
punishment policies for the offenders but it can be concluded that the authorities are not adopting
more suitable framework for the circumstances.
On the basis of these analysis, it can also be concluded that UK imprison sentencing is
effective enough as it has been successfully helping nation to manage the drug trafficking. The
attitude of offenders is also one of the critical factor which affect the drug trafficking. For
instance drug purity, previous convictions and drug supplied to schools or children must be
considered as highly sensitive factor for the adjustment of imprisonment duration. UK drug
trafficking policies integrate this aspect into consideration and thus the prison sentencing have
successfully created a fear among offenders. At the same time, mitigating factors such as good
character, isolated incident and exemplary conduct can also influence the punishments. Thus,
the integration of mitigating and aggravating factors are also significant in drug trafficking
issues.
It has been observed that due to lack of these factors number of prisoners in Brazil are
increasing but there is no improvement in the situation of drug trafficking. From the discussion,
it has been also evaluated that in Brazil and Colombia the imprisonment mainly affects the
individuals who have lowest level of the chain or first time offenders. Thus, no significant
actions are taken by these countries to approach large scale dealers who actually forms the drug
trafficking network. From the research it cannot be denied that drug trafficking also has social
impact on the people living in different countries.
Brazil has long prison sentences which also reinforce social exclusion and marginality of
poor citizens who are punished equally to drug trafficking offenders despite being involved in
mere possession and small consumption of the illegal drug. Contrary to this, UK legislation not
8

only emphasis on drug trafficking as international or economic issue, instead it is perceived as
social issue as well. Due to this reason, prison sentencing also incorporate mitigating factors so
that individuals can get a chance to correct their crimes and they get punishment to an extent
suitable for the drug offence they are involved within not for the trafficking charges. It can be
concluded that Brazil needs a more proportionate, fair and effective system like UK so that drug
consumers can be distinguished with drug traffickers. This will enable to lower the number of
prisoners and to reach actual dealers involved in trafficking rackets.
For effectively terminate the drug trafficking networks, drug legislation systems must be
integrated with the criminal justice systems so that drug offences are classified more precisely
and discretionary imprisonment of consumers can be lowered. Similarly Colombia must also
adopt a drug policy program like UK which mainstreams the prevention and regulation of drug
trafficking. In terms of policies and implementation of legislation, Colombia must first identify
and understand the adverse impact of drug trafficking so that policy reforms can bring efficiency.
However the drug trafficking related violence is also considered as the major topic for the
debate of these policies.
Thus, UK and South America both must also emphasis on developing framework and
systems so that lethality and police brutality can be prevented. It has been analysed that small
dealers or the drug consumers who receive harsh punishments under charges of drug trafficking
faces social exclusions after their punishment is completed. Thus, it is very essential for Brazil
and Colombia that they must give a fair chance to individuals so that they are punished for only
the offence they are involved in.
In terms of harshness, UK legislation is quite effective and does not cross the civil or
human rights of the offenders. For example, in Colombia trafficking offenders are also subjected
to harsh conditions for themselves as well as for their families. Even after the imprisonment is
ended their hardships does not reduced. The individuals who have charges of drug trafficking are
also not provided with housing or work facilities in the country after their release from the
prison. As per Colombian law, serious offenders are also punished to serve long duration of
parole in the country. Contrary to this, such types of harshness is not supported by UK law.
Hence, it can also be concluded that drug trafficking penalties must also favour human and civic
rights so that they not only prohibit the trafficking practices but also encourages individuals to
stake inspiration from the sentencing and to abolish such harmful practices.
9

10

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