Police Drug Tests at Parliament Find Morphine Cases

Two security officers at Thailand’s parliament complex tested positive for morphine during routine drug screening, prompting further checks by the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB). Officials stressed the cases were not linked to methamphetamine use, despite early reports describing the tests as “purple urine” results commonly associated with illegal drugs.

Get today's headlines by email

The announcement was made on May 22, 2026, by Jess Anukulphokharat, director of the Security Office at the parliament building. The screenings covered parliament police officers, security staff and transport personnel under a policy introduced by Parliament President Sophon Saram. Initial reports suggested one officer had tested positive for narcotics, but ONCB officials later clarified that morphine was the only substance detected.

According to Jess, two individuals were found to have morphine in their systems. One officer provided medical documentation confirming the prescribed use of morphine-based pain relief medication. The second officer did not have supporting documents but was reported to suffer from underlying health conditions and regularly take several forms of medication.

Officials have now submitted the medications used by the second officer to the ONCB for further examination. Parliament’s medical office has also been consulted to determine what additional action may be required and whether more detailed testing should take place.

Authorities said the two parliament officers involved in the latest case are continuing to work normally while the investigation continues. Jess stated there had been no order for suspension or compulsory rehabilitation because officials had not yet reached a final conclusion on the source of the morphine.

Amarin reported that he reiterated that the findings did not indicate methamphetamine use and stressed that ONCB investigators were focusing solely on identifying how morphine entered the officers’ systems. Further laboratory analysis and medical reviews are expected before a final determination is made.

Join the discussion?

Already a member?

Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 23 May 2026