The number of drug-related cases was confirmed at a meeting of the Phuket Provincial Narcotics Prevention and Suppression Committee at Phuket Provincial Hall late last week. Attendees included senior officials from the Phuket Provincial Police, the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), the Royal Thai Navy and other relevant agencies.
The meeting addressed strategies to prevent, suppress, and treat drug addiction while reviewing the results of enforcement actions from October to December 2024.
According to reports, 231 drug-related arrests were made in October, 225 in November, and 194 in December. Methamphetamine accounted for the highest number of drug-related arrests, followed by crystal meth, cocaine and heroin.
Mueang Phuket District reported the most methamphetamine-related arrests, while crystal meth cases were primarily concentrated in Kathu District.
To curb the drug trade, officials have intensified inspections at major ports, natural ports and small boat docking areas, said an official report of the meeting.
Authorities are also enforcing strict measures in service establishments and educational institutions.
The Phuket government is urging public cooperation in the fight against drugs. Residents are encouraged to report any drug-related activities to the ONCB hotline at 1386 or their nearest police station.
In a separate initiative, Region 8 Police launched an anti-crime campaign from Feb 22-28 to enhance security ahead of the elections on Saturday (Feb 1).
Although based in Phuket, Region 8 Police oversee law enforcement across seven southern provinces, including Ranong, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Sri Thammarat, Krabi, Phang Nga and Phuket.
The operation led to the arrest of 209 individuals in connection with 197 cases, including drug offenses, firearm violations, illegal gambling, and breaches of the Immigration Act. Among the arrests were:
- 81 drug-related cases with 81 suspects.
- 35 cases involving immigration violations.
- 26 suspects apprehended under old arrest warrants.
- 23 technology-related offenses.
- 19 cases involving foreign nationals violating Thai law.
Officers also confiscated significant amounts of illicit substances, including 33,467 methamphetamine pills, 233.08 grams of crystal methamphetamine, 5,000 grammes of heroin and 93.15g of cocaine.
Additional seized items included firearms, ammunition and assets such as a van valued at B1 million, cash totaling B62,900 and a gold necklace worth B45,000.