Phuket’s anti-drug campaign continues to gain momentum as authorities ramp up enforcement under Thailand’s national No Drugs, No Dealers policy. Aimed at eradicating narcotics from every village within three months, the intensified effort has led to a wave of arrests, drug seizures, and community-level interventions across the island.
Spearheaded by Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat and Provincial Police Commander Sinlert Sukhum, the campaign is a coordinated operation involving local police, administrative officers, and defence volunteers. Their united front has enabled high-impact raids across several districts in recent days.
On July 24, a targeted raid in the Saphan Ruam Phoonphon Community of Phuket Town led to the arrest of a 40-year-old man identified only as Plakorn, also known as Korn. Authorities confiscated 19.55 grammes of crystal meth, 80 methamphetamine pills, a mobile phone, and a red Honda Sonic motorbike. The estimated value of the seized items totaled 80,000 baht (approximately US$2,465). Korn now faces charges of drug possession and trafficking.
Elsewhere, in Koh Sirey, the Phuket Provincial Administration Special Operations Unit carried out a sting operation resulting in the arrest of a 37-year-old man accused of selling crystal meth to local youths. Officers seized 1.01 grammes of the drug, 400 baht (US$12) in marked money, a phone, motorbike, and related paraphernalia. The man has been charged with drug possession, sale, and use of Category 1 narcotics.
That same day, police at a checkpoint on Soi Patak 18 in Karon arrested a man carrying 8.18 grammes of crystal meth. He was charged with possession for sale and illegal drug use.
In Kathu District, 24 Thai and foreign construction workers were drug-tested at a camp in Moo 1, Kamala. One individual tested positive and was referred for treatment, aligning with the national policy’s 1 user = 1 dealer principle, which equates use with involvement in distribution.
Further raids in the Khao Noi community in Tambon Kathu led to the discovery of seven methamphetamine pills and the arrest of a Thai man. In Baan Mon, Patong, eight individuals using an abandoned building as a drug den were apprehended after testing positive for drug use. All were referred to rehabilitation programs, and investigations are ongoing to identify suppliers linked to the operation.
In Thalang District, July 25 brought additional arrests. In Ban Mak Prok, Mai Khao, a man was caught with two methamphetamine pills at a checkpoint and charged with driving under the influence of drugs. Another individual was apprehended in a separate operation on the same day.
Authorities affirm that these raids will continue with increased intensity until all areas of Phuket are free of illegal drug activity. The operation underscores a zero-tolerance stance and a renewed focus on community safety, rehabilitation, and supply chain disruption.
