Late-Night Raids in Kamala and Patong Net Drug Suspects
Phuket’s vibrant nightlife came under intense scrutiny this week as Thai authorities launched a series of late-night raids in Kamala and Patong, arresting drug suspects and seizing narcotics in a bold push to dismantle trafficking networks in popular tourist areas.
The crackdown is part of Thailand’s national “No Drugs, No Dealers” campaign, aimed at targeting not only users but also the suppliers behind the scenes. The latest operation took place on Monday, July 28, when officials from the Kathu District Office, led by Deputy District Chief Sikrin Aninbon, conducted surprise inspections at nightlife venues in Village 3, Kamala, near Soi Pa Jak.
Joined by Kamala Police, local village leaders, and volunteer defense teams, officers tested 23 individuals for drugs. Two tested positive. One suspect was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia and a knife, while the other agreed to cooperate with authorities for further investigation.
“The goal is not just to catch users,” a Kathu official stated. “It’s to trace every user to a dealer.” This aligns with the government’s “One User per Dealer” policy, which prioritizes dismantling entire trafficking chains rather than merely penalizing end-users.
Just a day earlier, on Sunday, July 27, a separate sting unfolded in Patong, another of Phuket’s bustling nightlife hubs. Police executed a raid on Soi Bang Ton Khao, confiscating 100 methamphetamine pills—99 of which were the orange “WY”-marked variety, along with one green pill. All were classified as Category 1 narcotics under Thai law. The suspect and the drugs have since been handed over to the Patong Police for prosecution.
Both operations represent a broader campaign to clean up Phuket’s image amid growing international attention and concerns about tourist safety. With Phuket being one of Thailand’s most visited destinations, officials are under increasing pressure to ensure that its nightlife scene does not serve as a cover for drug trafficking.
“These actions are just the beginning,” said one law enforcement officer involved in the Kamala raid. “We’re sending a clear message: if you’re dealing drugs in Phuket, we’re coming for you.”
Authorities have also confirmed that additional raids are in the pipeline, targeting surrounding districts and known hotspots for illicit activity. The Kathu District Office emphasized that cooperation between police, local leadership, and community volunteers will continue in full force to apply unrelenting pressure on narcotics distribution rings.
As investigations unfold, authorities hope that arresting and flipping users will lead to larger busts and the dismantling of entire networks. The recent raids have already sparked renewed interest in intelligence-sharing between local and national agencies.
In the meantime, officials are urging nightlife businesses to remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring their venues are not used as platforms for illegal activity. With public safety and Phuket’s international reputation on the line, the crackdown shows no signs of slowing.
