340 tonnes of seized narcotics to be burnt, says government

In an unprecedented move to combat the soaring drug crisis, 340 tonnes of seized narcotics are set to go up in flames at the Bang Pu Industrial Estate in Samut Prakan over a two-week operation commencing today, December 26.

Led by Justice Minister Police Colonel Tawee Sodsong and Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew, the ceremonious drug incineration aims to create much-needed space in overstuffed government warehouses, adhering to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s directive to tackle the narcotics menace through comprehensive solutions.

Dr Cholnan revealed that the operation marks the 57th drugs burn-up, aligning with the government’s dual focus on both suppressing the drug trade and rehabilitating addicts. The burning is part of a groundbreaking new policy allowing immediate evidence incineration post-certification, curbing the stockpile crisis in government storage.

Executed under tight security, the transfer of the colossal drug stash, accumulated through a staggering 836,081 cases, unfolded smoothly yesterday, December 25. The burning process, reaching an intense 1,800 degrees Celsius, promises to swiftly transform the drugs into harmless carbon, ensuring minimal environmental impact.

The incineration will commence with 110 tonnes today, December 26, with 60 tonnes sourced from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the remainder split between the Narcotics Suppression Bureau (NSB) and the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB). Dr Cholnan estimated the fiery spectacle’s cost to be at least 9 million baht.

Anticipating a groundbreaking shift in approach, Dr Cholnan unveiled plans for monthly drug burnings in the upcoming fiscal year. Additionally, the Public Health Ministry estimates a staggering 1,540,000 drug addicts nationwide, with 500,000 requiring hospital-based rehabilitation due to severe addiction, reported Bangkok Post.

On the rehabilitation front, Dr Cholnan stated that the focus is on a dual approach. For the severely affected, hospital-based rehab is essential, while the others can benefit from community-based rehabilitation programs.

In related news, officials yesterday cracked down on Pattaya‘s infamous 4 Step Tomboy nightclub. Allegations of illegal activities prompted a raid that exposed the possession of narcotics at the nightclub.