Bangkok strikes back: Thailand's attack on drug trafficking intensifies!

Bangkok strikes back: Thailand's attack on drug trafficking intensifies!

With a clear focus on curbing drug trafficking, the Thai government took new measures on October 15, 2025. Led by General Pana Klaewplodtuk, commander of the Thai Army, and Major General Wor Boonyah, commander of the 3rd Region, the border guard troops were urged to make every effort to prevent drug transfers from neighboring countries. Such initiatives are particularly important as drug trafficking poses a serious threat to society and affects the lives of many people.

On the eve of the new measures, on October 14, 2025, the 3rd Cavalry Unit was patrolling near Fang in Chiang Mai. There was a hostile encounter with 3 to 4 suspicious people who were armed with modified backpacks. Fortunately, the Thai soldiers remained unharmed in a 10-minute exchange of fire. During the subsequent search, the troops found two backpacks containing an impressive 210,000 methamphetamine tablets (Yaba). These drugs were handed over to Fang police for further legal action.

The new regulations

The fight against drugs is not only the responsibility of the army, but also of the authorities throughout the country. On October 12, 2025, a new regulation came into effect banning the sale of kratom near schools. This is another step to protect teenagers and children. The Drug Enforcement Agency has carried out inspections across the country and recorded some violations. The aim is to minimize the presence of drugs in everyday life and educate society.

The Chiang Mai Chamber of Commerce met at a meeting to promote health tourism. She emphasized the importance of positioning Chiang Mai as a wellness destination. In this context, the ongoing renovation work at Nong Buak Hat Park was also mentioned, where a rubber running track is currently being improved at a cost of 11,150,000 baht to improve the quality of life of citizens.

Background to the drug problem

The need for such tough action was underlined by the ongoing drug-related crime. Thailand's Caretaker Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai declared the fight against illegal drugs a national priority and unveiled the "No Drugs, No Dealers: Toward Zero Drugs Thailand" campaign. Between October 1, 2024 and August 18, 2025, a total of 222 million methamphetamine pills and other drugs were seized. These truly alarming figures show the scale of the problem and the urgency with which everyone involved must act.

The clashes with drug traffickers that took place between March and May 2025 highlighted the dangerous conditions in which emergency services work. In total, there were three incidents in which many drugs were seized and some drug traffickers were killed. Such conflicts highlight the risks that soldiers and police take every day to protect society.

The strategy used and clear coordination between different authorities are crucial. Phumtham calls for close cooperation from everyone, from the interior and defense ministries to local volunteers. Modern technology, such as the new mobile X-ray vehicles for drug detection, should help to increase the efficiency of operations and strengthen the population's confidence in the fight against drugs.

These decisive measures and the ongoing discussion about drug trafficking show that the fight against drugs is not only necessary, but also a shared task for the entire society.

World Handwashing Day was also celebrated on October 15, 2025, which emphasizes the importance of hygiene. Combined with the fight against drugs and initiatives to improve living conditions in Chiang Mai, this shows that the well-being of citizens is the focus.

For more information on this important topic, readers can take a look at coverage from Chiang Mai News, Bangkok Biz News and The farang throw.