Two State Railway of Thailand (SRT) employees have tested positive for illegal drug use and have been immediately suspended from all duties following the Asok-Din Daeng train-bus crash in Bangkok. The action forms part of a wider safety review and intensified screening programme introduced after the incident raised concerns about operational risk within rail services. The affected staff have been removed from duties pending medical confirmation and internal investigations.
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According to an SRT source, the latest cases were identified during pre-duty drug screening of operational personnel responsible for train movement and safety-critical roles. The testing programme was introduced after the crash at the Asok-Din Daeng level crossing, with the aim of strengthening safeguards for passengers and the public.
The first round of testing on May 19 covered 157 employees and returned no positive results. A second round conducted on May 20 tested 141 staff members, resulting in two positive findings for illegal substances. The SRT confirmed that both individuals were immediately suspended from safety duties and referred for confirmatory medical testing and disciplinary procedures. The incident driver involved in the crash had also previously tested positive for drug use, prompting further scrutiny of operational staff.
Anan Phonimdang, acting governor of the SRT, said the organisation would maintain strict, proactive drug testing across all operational staff nationwide, stressing there would be no exemptions where public safety is concerned. He said the crash had triggered a full review of safety protocols, particularly regarding substance use monitoring and prevention among employees in safety-sensitive positions.
The SRT stated that those who require treatment or rehabilitation would be processed through official public health channels while internal fact-finding and disciplinary inquiries continue. The findings have reinforced concerns over workforce safety standards in critical transport roles.
The Nation reported that the SRT is preparing to expand its “Drug-Free Organisation” initiative across all departments linked to operational safety. The programme aims to enforce stricter workplace standards, reduce operational risk and ensure greater accountability among staff. Ongoing screening is expected to continue nationwide as part of long-term reforms designed to restore confidence in rail safety and prevent further incidents linked to impairment.
Picture courtesy of The Nation
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 22 May 2026
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