The committee met for their first meeting of the fiscal year at the Phuket Provincial Hall yesterday (Dec 3).
The meeting, chaired by Phuket Provincial Chief Administrative Officer (Palad) Thiraphong Chuaychu, brought together key figures, including Phuket Provincial Police Commander Pol Maj Gen Sinlert Sukhum, along with Chotiphan Chulpetch, Director of the Office of the Narcotics Control Board Region 8 branch, and other representatives of government enforcement agencies.
The focus was on evaluating drug prevention and control measures, ensuring they align with national policies. The committee reviewed the outcomes of prior efforts, particularly in Rawai, where drug prevalence has been a pressing concern.
Policies affecting migrant workers found with drugs in their system was a key topic of discussion, especially how to allow foreign workers found with drugs in their system to remain in the country, presumably so they could keep working.
A summary of the province’s drug situation revealed an increase in drug-related arrests by 105 cases, or 4.34%, from October 2023 to September 2024, excluding cases involving kratom and cannabis, said an official report of the meeting.
The increase underscores the ongoing challenge of combating drug use and trafficking in Phuket, Mr Thiraphong noted.
Officials at the meeting highlighted several initiatives under the national policy for drug prevention and suppression. Among these was the ‘White Interior Ministry’ project, which aims to establish safe zones and curb drug use.
The meeting also emphasised the need for continuous reporting on measures related to prevention, suppression, treatment and drug management to ensure long-term effectiveness, the official report said.
Officials at the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying anti-drug efforts in 2025, aiming to address the root causes of the problem and strengthen community resilience against drug-related issues, the report concluded.