Bangkok: The government spokesperson revealed that the anti-narcotics policy has resulted in a 20% increase in arrests, and pledged to continue upgrading efforts in both prevention and treatment.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, stated that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul prioritizes the suppression of narcotics as a threat to national security. Drug networks are currently linked to transnational organized crime, using sophisticated smuggling methods and international transportation channels. To counter this, the government has instructed all agencies to integrate their work closely as part of "Operation Eradicate Drugs." This initiative aims to decisively dismantle drug traffickers' networks. The Prime Minister has tasked all agencies with developing coordinated operational plans to ensure systematic work and concrete solutions. Results from the past eight months, from October 1, 2025, to May 31, 2026, reflect intensified efforts between the Royal Thai Police, the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), the Ministry of Interior, the military, Customs, and other related agencies. These efforts led to the dismantling of 16,41 9 drug networks and the arrest of 203,637 offenders, marking a 20.36% increase compared to the previous year. Authorities seized over 997 million methamphetamine pills and 39.4 tons of crystal methamphetamine, alongside large quantities of ecstasy and ketamine. Assets worth over 7,677 million baht have been seized and frozen in drug-related cases, showcasing efforts to disrupt the financial networks of drug trafficking alongside effective law enforcement.
In addition to suppression efforts, the government continues to focus on drug prevention and treatment. Currently, 40,440 drug users have been brought into treatment programs, operating in 2,970 communities. Moreover, the police-school coordination project has been implemented in over 1,537 educational institutions, screening over 1.12 million students to identify at-risk groups and provide timely assistance. The DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program has educated over 252,427 young people about the dangers of drug abuse.
Ms. Rachada further mentioned that the incident involving the airline cabin crew highlights how drug trafficking rings constantly adapt their methods. Consequently, the government must adjust its measures to keep pace. The Prime Minister has instructed aviation and security agencies to review and upgrade airport security measures, adhering to the Zero Trust principle, or applying the same standards of inspection to everyone, to close loopholes that could be used to smuggle drugs and other illegal substances.