Drug arrests coming down

PHUKET: Crime statistics released by the Phuket Provincial Police show that the number of drug-related arrests in June was down to 44% compared with 66% in May.

In June, there were 171 arrests for drug-related offenses, 104 of which involved ya bah (methamphetamine) with a total of 7,052 pills seized.

A total of 41 people were arrested for using cannabis, with 4,581.08 grams and two plants of the illegal herb reported confiscated. There were seven arrests for possession of krathom (an indigenous plant that acts as a mild stimulant) with 74 leaves of the plant seized.

Thirteen people were arrested for possession of solvents, with 12 bags and a can of inhalant seized. Three people were arrested for possession of ya ice (crystal methamphetamine) with 0.44g confiscated. There were three arrests for charges related to one pill and 1.94g of ecstasy.

Arrests for gambling offenses decreased by about 100 compared with May, with 158 people arrested.

Although five cases of attempted murder were reported only one related arrest was made.

There were 45 thefts reported, including three for motorcycles. Arrests were made in 22 of these cases.

Prostitution accounted for 51 arrests, while 33 people were nabbed for possession of unlicensed firearms.