Phatthalung officer probed over alleged drug use on Zoom

Police in Phatthalung have opened an investigation after footage allegedly showed a police sergeant major using drugs while attending an online training session on 10 August.

The officer, attached to Thale Noi Police Station in Phatthalung, was among 259 officers taking part in a Zoom or VTV course organised by Provincial Police Region 9 for the 2026 fiscal year.

The training was aimed at improving the efficiency of police officers at levels from squad leader to deputy superintendent. According to reports, several participants were disturbed by what they saw on camera and recorded the screen before raising the matter with senior officers and the media.

Provincial commander orders investigation

Phatthalung Provincial Police commander Major General Chaowalit Liangsuphong said he had ordered the Thale Noi police superintendent to urgently establish the facts after learning of the allegations through online media.

If the claims are found to be true, the officer will face decisive disciplinary action, he said.

Reporters who visited Thale Noi Police Station on 13 August were unable to speak to the station superintendent, Police Colonel Rangsi Manchit, who was attending a senior management training course.

An officer at the station reportedly suggested that drug use by a police officer was not in itself a serious matter, but said society did not accept it.

Officer previously served in Trang

The officer in the footage was previously stationed in Trang before transferring to Thale Noi Police Station around two years ago, according to reports.

It was also reported that he had previously been linked to drug-related behaviour and had allegedly pawned a government-issued firearm and an official vehicle. Those earlier claims have not been detailed by police in the initial response.

The substance alleged to have been used in the video was described in Thai as "ya ma", a term commonly used for methamphetamine tablets.

Police have not said when the investigation will be completed or whether the officer has been suspended while inquiries continue.

Picture courtesy of Amarin

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14 August 2026

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