In a recent announcement, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin unveiled the launch of a comprehensive nationwide crackdown on drug abuse and trafficking, known as the “X-ray” operations. This sweeping initiative aims to eradicate drug abuse and dismantle trafficking networks throughout Thailand.
According to government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke, individuals caught abusing drugs will be directed to rehabilitation centers, while those involved in trafficking will be subject to arrest and rigorous legal consequences. Furthermore, provincial governors will take charge of ensuring that individuals aged 16 and above undergo mandatory urine tests as part of the crackdown.
The “X-ray” operations will be a joint effort involving the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), local law enforcement, civil society, and community leaders. The primary objective is to provide rehabilitation for drug users while holding traffickers accountable under the full extent of the law. Prime Minister Srettha emphasized the importance of identifying and assisting drug users, as well as prosecuting those involved in drug peddling.
As part of this initiative, the ministries of Public Health, Interior, and Defense have been tasked with constructing new rehabilitation facilities. Additionally, the ministries of Labor and Social Development, as well as Human Security, are set to provide career training to individuals undergoing rehabilitation, aiding in their successful reintegration into society.
Furthermore, the ministries overseeing Education, Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation will be actively involved in monitoring students to safeguard them from falling victim to drug influences, with the goal of preventing new drug users from emerging.
Since the implementation of the crackdown last October, there has been a substantial impact. Law enforcement officials have apprehended a total of 184,411 suspects in 177,121 drug-related cases, resulting in the seizure of 764 million amphetamine tablets, 1.27 tonnes of heroin, 4.17 tonnes of ketamine, 30 kilograms of cocaine, and 127,190 MDMA tablets. In addition, assets with a cumulative worth of 6.34 billion baht have been confiscated, with 108,304 individuals undergoing rehabilitation.
Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin has expressed his full support for allocating seized assets from drug cases to fund rehabilitation efforts. His past experience as the Justice Ministry chair has led to the amendment of narcotic laws, particularly those relating to asset seizures, in order to further fortify these initiatives.
The aggressive “X-ray” operations spearheaded by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin underscore the government’s unwavering commitment to combating the scourge of drug abuse and trafficking. With a multi-faceted approach that involves rehabilitation, legal action, and preventative measures, the administration aims to significantly curb drug-related activities while championing the well-being of the Thai populace.
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