Pictures courtesy of Kaoded.

 

Pol. Col. Suriya Singhakmon, Secretary-General of the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), on 17 October 2025, led a team to inspect a chemical factory in Samut Prakan under the proactive “NO Chemical No Drugs” policy. Authorities seized more than 19 tonnes of sodium carbonate and over 4 tonnes of ammonium chloride for 30 days to allow the company to present supporting documentation. The move aims to prevent industrial chemicals from being diverted into illicit drug production.

 

The factory had reportedly failed to report the import and export of controlled chemicals as required by law. Investigations revealed that the company purchased these chemicals domestically for export to Myanmar without notifying the ONCB via its official website, as mandated under the law on controlled substances. Although neither chemical is a direct precursor, both are key components in producing illicit drugs such as methamphetamine, morphine and opium.

 

Pol. Col. Suriya emphasised that unreported transactions pose a serious risk of chemicals being used in drug production, particularly in the Golden Triangle region. He stressed that the ONCB would not tolerate any loopholes that allow the drug trade access to chemicals. The inspection and seizure are also intended to raise awareness among operators about their social responsibility and the need for transparent reporting systems.

 

The action was carried out under the authority of the National Council for Peace and Order Order 32/2016 and the 2016 Ministry of Justice announcement, which classifies certain substances as controlled chemicals. Companies must report all production, import, export and transportation of these chemicals to the ONCB. If operators cannot demonstrate lawful use, the transaction may be deemed suspicious and the Secretary-General may order disposal or other appropriate actions.

 

Authorities have urged all chemical operators to comply with reporting regulations to help “cut the drug supply chain at its source.” Companies with questions about controlled substances or narcotics law can contact the ONCB hotline at 1386.

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Over 23 tonnes of chemicals seized to prevent diversion into illicit drug production.

• The factory failed to report chemical imports and exports as required by law.

• ONCB emphasizes transparency and compliance to stop drugs at their source.

 

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  Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-10-19

 

 

 

 

 

None of these chemicals is a precursor, so what. One is baking soda! Is shipping to Myanmar now a crime? Morphine and opium are derived from poppies. Sheesh!