Gambling and drugs crimes down in January

PHUKET: The number of gambling and drugs arrests in Phuket fell in January compared with the previous month, according to monthly crime statistics released by Phuket Provincial Police.

In January, there were 177 arrests for gambling and 101 arrests for drug-related offenses, 55 of which involved ya bah (methamphetamine) with a total of 1,065.5 pills seized.

Twenty-six people were arrested for using cannabis, with a total of 3.18 kilograms confiscated. There were six arrests for inhalant abuse and eight for possession of krathom (an indigenous Thai plant that acts as a mild stimulant) with 255 leaves of the plant seized.

Thirteen people were arrested for possession of ya ice (crystal methamphetamine) with 25.05 grams seized. Four people were arrested for possession of ya E (Ecstasy) with 60 pills seized.

One person was arrested for being under the influence of heroin while in possession of two straws containing the drug. There were two arrests for possession of opium with one packet and one “piece” (sic) of opium seized.

There were 113 cases of theft reported, of which seven involved motorcycles and three involved cars. Arrests were made in 72 of the cases.

Out of six attempted murders reported in January, two related arrests were made, along with two arrests made in connection with three reports of assault.

There were 166 arrests for prostitution and 14 arrests for possession of unlicensed firearms.

Four people were arrested in January for possession of or distribution of pornography.