The inspection began at 7:30am, led by Phuket Marine Chief Adul Ralukmoon in coordination with Phuket Marine Police, Phuket Tourist Police and other relevant agencies, including the Central Investigation Bureau’s Marine Police Division.
A total of 41 boat crew members were randomly selected for urine drug testing during the operation. Officials confirmed that one individual tested positive for drugs and was processed in accordance with regulations, including referral for rehabilitation.
Mr Adul said the operation formed part of the Marine Department and Phuket Province’s policy to eliminate drug use among boat crew members in order to enhance maritime safety, particularly on vessels serving tourists.
The drug sweep was the second carried out following the speedboat collision with a fishing trawler on Jan 11 that left a 17-year-old Russian girl dead and many others injured.
A similar operation conducted at Chalong Pier last week saw 87 boat crew tested, with officials confirming that six returned positive results.
Mr Adul explained that the integrated inspections involve checks on both drug use and boat licences, and are intended to deter narcotics use among those working in the marine transport sector.
“If a boat operator or motor vehicle user is found to be involved with narcotics, their licence will be suspended for two years,” Mr Adul said. “In cases of repeat offences, licence revocation may be considered.”
He added that all relevant agencies — including Phuket Province, the Marine Department, Marine Department Region 5, the Phuket Branch Marine Department, Phuket Marine Police, Phuket Tourist Police and local authorities — are working together to ensure the safety of tourists and residents.
Mr Adul stressed that continued enforcement is essential to maintaining safety standards and public confidence in Phuket’s marine tourism sector.
Further inspections will continue at piers across the province as part of ongoing efforts to reduce risks associated with drug use among vessel crew members, he added.
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