Two Chalong Pier boat operators test positive for methamphetamine
Two boat operators from Chalong Pier have been found positive for methamphetamine use during a safety campaign screening in Phuket. This effort, part of the new year safety initiative, was led by Phuket Marine Chief Natchapong Pranit and took place on the morning of December 28.
A total of 34 boat operators and crew members underwent the random drug tests, according to an official report. The screenings were supported by various officials, including Marine Police, Internal Security Operations Command (Isoc), Civil Defence Volunteers (OrSor), and representatives from the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), the organisation responsible for managing the pier.
The two operators who tested positive have agreed to enter treatment programs and were immediately barred from any seafaring duties. Marine officials are considering whether to suspend or revoke their licences.
Screenings commenced at 8.30am, a mere two hours before an inspection by Phuket Vice Governor Adul Chuthong at Chalong Pier. The vice governor’s visit was intended to reassure the public and media about the safety measures in place for the new year holidays, reported The Phuket News.
“We are taking serious steps to ensure safety on the water, especially during the busy holiday period,” a marine official stated.
In related news, police in Krabi conducted a random drug test on ferry operators and crew members at Koh Lanta, resulting in several individuals testing positive for drugs. The operators, found with purple urine, have been suspended and will undergo rehabilitation.
The joint operation involved local administrative officers from Koh Lanta district and regional marine department officials. They carried out these surprise urine tests on ferry operators and crew members providing tourist services at Saladan Pier in Saladan subdistrict, Koh Lanta. The presence of purple urine indicated drug use among several individuals, prompting officers to halt their services and process their rehabilitation.
