Report Phuket Takes Action: Anti-Drug Campaign "No Drugs No Dealers"

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Photo courtesy of The Phuket Express

 

Phuket has launched a robust anti-drug campaign titled "No Drugs No Dealers," aiming to tackle its ongoing narcotics crisis through coordinated actions. This proactive initiative was unveiled on 25th July 2025 at the Phuket Provincial Hall, driven by the Provincial Narcotics Control Center and the Phuket Provincial Police.

 

Presided over by Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat, the launch saw collaboration among top officials from security, administration, and public health sectors. This campaign aligns with the Thai government’s policy led by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kitirat Phanphit. Their strategy involves "X-raying" communities to identify and manage drug dealers and users through arrests and rehabilitation.

 

Since October 2023, authorities in Phuket have undertaken a rigorous clampdown on drug-related activities. This has resulted in 2,262 cases involving 2,379 suspects, which include 1,286 major offences and 976 instances of drug use.

 

Significant hauls of narcotics have been reported: 253,876 methamphetamine tablets, nearly 29 kilograms of crystal meth, 1.49 kilograms of cocaine, 28,268 ecstasy pills, and 4 kilograms of ketamine. Further investigations led to 19 additional cases connected to drug networks, with authorities seizing 456 assets valued at over 42 million baht (about 38 million Thai Baht).

 

Additionally, the campaign has ramped up community engagement through the "Sustainable Subdistrict Project." This initiative covers 22 villages and assists 310 individuals in drug rehabilitation programmes.

 

Between 22nd and 25th July, authorities conducted 26 targeted raids, which resulted in 43 arrests, including 24 serious offences and 19 related to drug use. Confiscations included 1,873 meth pills, 43.64 grams of crystal meth, 3 grams of ketamine, and 5 ecstasy tablets. Property seized during these operations amounted to seven items worth around 123,000 baht.

 

This campaign marks a decisive step in Phuket’s war on narcotics, with a focus on tough enforcement and community rehabilitation. The authorities are keen to sustain momentum and ultimately create a safer and drug-free environment across the province.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Phuket Express 2025-07-29