Compulsory random drug tests for soldiers would help enforce the Bermuda Regiment's zero-tolerance policy on drug use, new commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Edward Lamb said yesterday.

His comments come after news broke that three Regiment soldiers were caught in possession of marijuana at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina last year.

Lt. Col. Lamb admitted there were soldiers who used drugs but emphasised the Regiment had "zero tolerance" toward them.

Asked if he supported compulsory random drug testing, as in the US and Britain, he said: "I would support any idea that is going to be a deterrent for the use of drugs. "I don't see drugs as a main scourge of the Regiment. There is a drug culture but it is not a problem that affects our operational readiness or effectiveness."

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