At 8pm, Governor Nisit Jansomwong led a group of territory defence volunteers, stability department officials, Phuket city police and health department officials to carry out an anti drug and crime campaign aimed at keeping peace and order on the island.
More than 100 officials divided into two group and set up two security checkpoints. The first was set up in front of the OrBorJor hospital in Talad Yai, the other at Sriphuwanart Park in Wichit.
The team also carried out raids at entertainment venues in and around Phuket Town to search for illegal activities and drugs.
Gov Nisit said the reason for the swoop was to keep up with the Ministry of Interiors peace and order policy which aims at preserving the good image of tourists destinations such as Phuket and Chiang Mai, especially as it is now close to the Songkran festival, when tourist safety is essential.
Gov Nisit said, “We wanted to check entertainment areas for any illegal activity and to get them ready for Songkran. Recently we have received a lot of complaints about entertainment venues relating to noise disturbances, dirtiness and drugs.
In Wichit, officials gave 212 random teenagers and residents drug tests with 20 people testing positive for either methamphetamine (ya bah) or crystal meth (ya ice).
Those who tested positive were advised to seek drug rehab treatment.
Meanwhile, another group of officers raided The Time Bar, Baza Restaurant, Eve Wine Cafe and Mini Restaurant for illegal activities but found nothing untoward.
At the OrBorTor Hospital checkpoint, 189 people were tested for drugs, 11 people tested positive.
In Phuket Town, 18 entertainment venues were checked by officials but no illegal activity was found.