Army Targets Drugs, Illegal Immigration

[george]

Army targets drugs, illegal immigration

BANGKOK: -- The army commander has urged troops to set up more checkpoints along the country's border to block drug trafficking and prevent illegal border crossing. He said the army needed to shake off its 'red-tape culture' if it would accomplish what it plans.

Speaking to reporters about the army's performance during his six months in command, Gen Sonthi Boonyaratkalin said the army hindered by inefficiency within the organisation that causes delays in turning policies into actions.

"This is because we are in a civil servant system which limits the way we can think. Today, we are trying to speed up our work and would need to think beyond the framework," said the army commander.

Gen. Sonthi said the army has strengthened anti-drug trafficking measures during this week's long holiday as there have been signs showing a possible increase in drug smuggling.

The army commander also stressed the importance of imposing strict measures against illegal migration because it could become a prolonged problem for the country if not solved.

"We must have a clear policy on this issue and from now on, the army must set up more checkpoints along our border to prevent illegal entry,'' he said.

-- TNA 2006-04-14

[astral]

Have they only just thought of this?

We are on the umpteenth iteration of the Stop Drugs campaign!!