Report Phuket Police Ramp Up Drug-Free Campaign with New Phase

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Picture courtesy of Phuket Provincial Police

 

In a significant push against the drug menace in Phuket, authorities have kicked off the second phase of their ambitious No Drugs, No Dealers campaign. This initiative comes in response to a directive from Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, aiming to address Thailand's drug crisis as a pressing national issue.

 

Launched under the temporary Prime Ministerial leadership of Mr Wechayachai, the campaign brings together civil servants, the Royal Thai Police, and other agencies to tackle drug dealers and users efficiently. The target? A drug-free community within three months.

 

Police General Kittirat Phanphet, Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, has outlined a robust strategy for this operation, segmented into three distinct phases:

 

• Phase 1 (Late July): This initial stage saw police performing comprehensive searches and arrests focusing on small- and medium-scale drug operations. Assisted by local officials, they conducted raids, established cordons, and seized illegal assets.
• Phase 2 (August): Building upon intelligence gathered in the first phase, authorities are broadening their investigations. This includes expanding the net to capture larger networks and directing drug users towards rehabilitation programmes.
• Phase 3 (September): This final stage will involve assessing the campaign’s success and declaring specific areas as drug-free zones, known as ‘white communities’.

 

On 1st August, the campaign's second phase was launched ceremonially, led by Phuket Governor Sopon Suwannarat and Phuket Provincial Police Commander, Police Major General Sinlert Sukhum. Over 600 personnel participated in a parade and briefing attended by officials from various sectors.

 

During this event, they recapped the outcomes from Phase 1, which transpired between 18th and 31st July. The period saw the dismantling of 58 drug networks, raids on 121 locations, and the arrest of 138 individuals involved in drug-related offences. Seized contraband included 6,524 methamphetamine pills, 300 grammes of crystal meth, various other illegal substances, a firearm, and assets worth approximately 1.17 million baht.

 

The initiation of Phase 2 on August 1 marked a determined continuation of these efforts. Police conducted coordinated operations across Phuket Province, dismantling 12 more drug networks and arresting 13 suspects. This operation managed to seize 379 ya bah pills, 10.6 grammes of crystal meth, and significant quantities of other illicit drugs and assets valued at 1.94 million baht.

 

Phuket’s police officials have urged the local populace to report any suspicious drug activity. The authorities emphasise confidentiality, assuring that all reports will be handled discreetly, with whistleblower protection guaranteed. Citizens can make reports either directly at local police stations or via the 191 emergency hotline.

 

The intensified efforts of the Phuket Provincial Police underscore a resolute stance against drug activities. As the campaign progresses, the collaboration between law enforcement and community members is pivotal for achieving the shared goal of drug-free communities. With this concerted push, authorities aim not just to curb drug use, but to dismantle entire networks, promoting safer, healthier communities on the island.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-08-04