The operation, conducted on Monday (Nov 10), was led by Anurak Poolsak, Chief of Security at Kathu District Office. Members of the 2nd Kathu Volunteer Defense Corps (OrSor) unit joined the raid.
Officials confirmed the arrest of one suspect, identified only as ‘Mr. A’, 23, a Thai national. He was charged with violating Ministry of Public Health regulations prohibiting the sale of kratom within 1,000 metres of educational institutions, and with possessing dangerous prescription drugs – specifically cough syrup – for sale without permission.
The suspect and seized evidence were handed over to Kathu Police Station for legal proceedings.
Under the Kratom Plant Act B.E. 2565 (2022), it is prohibited to sell kratom leaves or kratom water within a 1,000-metre radius of an educational institution and it is prohibited to sell kratom leaves or kratom water by hawking or setting up stalls.
Violators face a fine of B50,000
The enforcement forms part of Phuket’s version of the national ‘Operation 120 Days Nonstop’ social order initiative, which aims to strengthen social order and crack down on gambling, drugs, human trafficking, vice activities and the influence of criminal figures across the island, said an official report of the raid.
Kathu District officials confirmed that operations will continue in line with government and Ministry of Interior policy to ensure safety and maintain public peace in local communities.