Thailand’s Acting PM Vows Tough Action on Drug Trade and Corrupt Officials
Thailand’s Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has issued a strong warning to government officials turning a blind eye—or actively aiding—the country’s persistent narcotics trade, promising immediate removal and legal action for those found complicit.
In a national broadcast on “Okadthai” (Thai Opportunity) on Sunday, Phumtham declared that fighting the spread of illegal drugs was a top government priority, describing the narcotics crisis as a direct threat to grassroots economic development.
“This issue is not just about crime—it’s about national progress, social stability, and our people’s future,” said Phumtham, who also serves as Thailand’s Interior Minister.
Complicity in Plain Sight
Phumtham echoed sentiments previously voiced by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and suspended PM Paetongtarn, stating that illegal drugs continue to derail efforts to strengthen local economies.
He acknowledged growing concerns from community leaders, many of whom have reported that some district chiefs and even provincial governors are involved in the drug trade or turn a blind eye to trafficking in their regions.
“People are aware of what’s happening. They see the same names, the same routes, and the same lack of action. They wonder why local leaders can keep claiming ignorance. It’s time that stopped,” he said.
Phumtham pledged that when he visits provinces and sees signs of negligence, he will immediately order officials to be transferred, followed by full legal investigations. He pointed to his previous action against three police chiefs in Tak province who were accused of supporting illegal casinos.
“This is how we bring real change—swift, visible action, followed by accountability,” he said.
Strategic Border Control and Technology
The acting prime minister also discussed stepped-up border control initiatives, especially along the porous frontiers with Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia. He highlighted the “Seal Stop Safe” campaign, aimed at shutting down smuggling routes before drugs reach Thai cities.
Thailand is now increasing the deployment of CCTV networks and thermal drones to monitor trafficking corridors, particularly in remote or mountainous terrain. These efforts are being coordinated with Interpol to dismantle the financial networks of regional drug lords.
Surprise Inspections and Community Involvement
Phumtham made it clear that surprise inspections would become standard practice.
“I will visit areas unannounced. If the work is effective, I’ll support it. If it’s not, there will be consequences—regardless of rank,” he said.
In addition to law enforcement, Phumtham called for community support to fight the narcotics trade, noting that tackling drug trafficking brings economic and social benefits at the local level.
“If we ensure our bureaucratic systems aren’t being used to commit crime, we can solve these problems,” he added.
A National Mandate
With public trust in local enforcement agencies waning and drug use spreading through rural and urban areas alike, the acting PM’s tough talk signals a major shift in how Thailand approaches the drug crisis and official corruption.
“Drug suppression is no longer just a task—it is a national priority. We must act accordingly, and we must act now,” Phumtham said.
