Phuket police crackdown: 39 nabbed in weeklong sweep against drugs and guns, boosting tourist security

The Phuket Provincial Police apprehended 39 individuals on counts of drug and firearm offences over the past week in their continuous effort to enhance the security of its tourism sector.

Between October 15 and 21, Phuket police reported that they had caught 32 suspects red-handed with narcotics. Among them, 11 were implicated in allegations of drug distribution and conspiring to support the widespread circulation of drugs.

The police operation yielded a significant seizure of illicit substances. They confiscated 1,038 tablets of methamphetamine, commonly referred to as ‘ya bah’, in addition to 56.3 grams of crystal meth or ya ice, and 6.5 grammes of cocaine.

Beyond the drug-related arrests, the Phuket police also targeted potential firearm violations. A report released to the Thai media by the police highlighted its recent success.

“We have cordoned off and searched numerous dubious locations, resulting in the apprehension of seven individuals under the Firearms Act.”

The count of 39 arrests over a week is a notable decrease from the 64 arrests made in the preceding week from October 8 to 14. This ongoing police campaign is part of a larger strategy to bolster safety and security for tourists, especially catering to the influx of visitors from China and Kazakhstan, who are currently benefiting from a visa-free scheme, reported Phuket News.

Despite the arrest tally, Phuket police remain vigilant and determined in their efforts to suppress crime and safeguard the tourism industry, to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all visitors to Phuket.

In related tourist safety news, Patong Surf Life Saving has reinitiated the nighttime beach patrols to boost the safety measures at Patong Beach. Despite the details of the resumption of nighttime patrols still being under wraps by Patong Municipality and the Patong Development Fund, the initiative named Patong Baywatch has been put back into action. Read more about the story HERE.

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