The anti-corruption and anti-narcotics authorities have stepped up efforts to crack down on state officials involved in drug-related activities, with plans for a major enforcement operation in the near future. The move follows a high-level meeting on 18 March 2026 aimed at strengthening coordination and accelerating legal action against offenders within the public sector.
Get today's headlines by email 
The Secretary-General of the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission, Phumiwisan Kasemsuk, met with Pol. Maj. Gen. Suriya Singhakamol, Secretary-General of the Office of the Narcotics Control Board, to exchange intelligence and enhance cooperation. The initiative integrates three key agencies, the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC), the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), and the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO), to establish concrete joint operational measures. Authorities confirmed that existing laws are sufficient, but enforcement and accountability, particularly among senior officials, have been weak.
Phumiwisan stated that the government has designated drug suppression as an urgent national priority, with a renewed focus on prosecuting officials at all levels, including users, accomplices, and traffickers. In the past, enforcement largely targeted lower-ranking personnel, while senior supervisors often denied responsibility. Under the new measures, commanders must demonstrate they have not neglected their duties if subordinates are found involved in drug offences, or they may face disciplinary action, including transfers.
The initiative applies specifically to civil servants and does not include politicians. Relevant laws, such as the Civil Service Act and narcotics legislation, will be strictly enforced. Authorities also plan to intensify financial investigations using AMLO powers to trace money trails and dismantle drug networks more effectively.
Phumiwisan acknowledged that specific targets for enforcement operations have already been identified but declined to disclose details. He confirmed that a large-scale operation targeting implicated state officials will be launched soon.
The strengthened collaboration is expected to improve accountability across the public sector and close enforcement gaps that have previously hindered action against higher-ranking officials. Observers note that holding supervisors responsible could mark a significant shift in tackling systemic issues within government agencies.
Thaitabloid reported that authorities are preparing to implement the coordinated crackdown, combining legal enforcement with financial tracking to disrupt drug networks comprehensively. Further announcements are anticipated once operations commence.
Join the discussion? 
Already a member? 
Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 19 Mar 2026