Drug arrests on the rise

PHUKET: Crime statistics released by the Phuket Provincial Police show that the number of drug-related arrests was about 52% higher in April than for the same period last year.

There were 120 arrests for drug-related offenses, 63 of which involved ya bah (methamphetamine) with a total of 3,761 pills seized. However, arrests for gambling offences still topped the list with 202 arrests.

A total of 21 people were arrested for using cannabis, with 49 grams of the illegal herb confiscated. There were 12 arrests for possession of krathom (an indigenous plant that acts as a mild stimulant), with 177 leaves of the plant seized.

Sixteen people were arrested for possession of solvents, with 16 bags and a can seized. Seven people were arrested for possession of ya ice (crystal methamphetamine).

There were five attempted murders, with two related arrests, as well as three reports of assault and three arrests.

There were 84 cases of theft reported, including four motorcycles and two cars. Arrests were made in 42 of these cases.

Prostitution accounted for 78 arrests, while 23 people were nabbed for possession of unlicensed firearms.