Crime Subdistrict Chief Caught Taking Meth on International Day Against Drug Abuse

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Workpoint.

 

In a startling development coinciding with International Day Against Drug Abuse, a local subdistrict chief (Nai Yok Or Bor Tor) in Naklang District, Nong Bua Lamphu Province, has been arrested along with five others for methamphetamine use.

 

The arrests were part of a province-wide anti-narcotics operation, “Phitak Lum Phu,” launched by Nong Bua Lamphu Governor Surasak Aksornkul between 24–26 June 2025. The crackdown has already yielded nearly 20,000 meth pills, 12 motorbikes, 3 cars, a farm vehicle and a cache of firearms, with a total value exceeding 2 million baht.

 

On 25 June, during a routine sweep, one drug suspect challenged authorities, questioning why prominent local officials allegedly involved in drug use had not been apprehended. This prompted an investigation into the local administrative organisation (Or Bor Tor).

 

Authorities summoned the subdistrict chief, who was not publicly named, to meet the district chief of Naklang, Mr Rungreung Thimabutr. During the meeting, the official was asked to undergo a urine test, which tested positive for meth. Upon further questioning, the subdistrict chief admitted to drug use and was taken back to his home for a search.

 

At the remote property, police found four other individuals, the chief’s son, daughter-in-law and two sugarcane workers, all of whom confessed to meth use and tested positive. A search of the bedroom uncovered two unlicensed firearms: a homemade handgun loaded with five .38-calibre rounds and a rifle. The weapons were seized.

 

A separate search at the chief’s office did not reveal any illegal items. Authorities then acted on further intelligence and arrested a local subdistrict council member, who also admitted to drug use and tested positive.

 

All six individuals were taken to Naklang District Office for further questioning. While the group agreed to enter a rehabilitation programme, the subdistrict chief faces additional charges under The Firearms Act. He will be formally charged and brought before court. Disciplinary proceedings have also been initiated and he has been suspended from duty pending the outcome.

 

District Chief Rungreung stated, “There will be zero tolerance for any government officials involved in drug activities. We will act decisively and without exception.”

 

When asked by reporters how many pills he had taken that day, the subdistrict chief admitted to consuming two meth tablets in the morning but could not recall the exact time.

 

Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to eradicating drug use among public servants and urged those involved in narcotics to seek help or face serious consequences.

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-06-27