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ISOC tightens Phuket security crackdown

PHUKET: Phuket security and anti-drug operations were placed under the spotlight on Saturday (May 23) as Fourth Army Area Commander Lt Gen Norathip Poynok led a high-level meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall to review threats ranging from narcotics trafficking to illegal land encroachment and foreign nominee business activities.

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By The Phuket News

Monday 25 May 2026 09:32 AM


 

The meeting brought together senior provincial officials, police, military commanders and representatives from multiple government agencies to coordinate ongoing enforcement and security efforts across the island.

Among those attending were Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn, Deputy Governor Adul Chuthong, Phuket Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Sinlert Sukhum and Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation President Rewat Areerob.

Officials reviewed the province’s overall security situation, with discussions focusing on drug prevention and suppression, public space management, illegal immigration, transnational crime, natural resource encroachment and concerns over foreign land ownership through nominee arrangements.

Authorities said the issues were affecting Phuket’s security, economy and tourism image, making coordinated enforcement a priority.

Phuket officials reported that anti-drug operations during the 2026 fiscal year had uncovered attempts to smuggle narcotics into the province through private transport and delivery services. Several major arrests and drug seizures had already been made through joint operations involving police, military, administrative officers and security agencies.

The meeting also heard updates on investigations into encroachment on beaches, forests and public land in key tourism areas, including Bang Tao Beach, Freedom Beach and Nui Beach.

Officials confirmed that several cases remain under legal proceedings while authorities continue to investigate land ownership documents, business operations involving foreigners and alleged nominee arrangements.

Government agencies, including forestry officials, maritime authorities, police and administrative officers, were ordered to continue working together to accelerate investigations and enforce the law against illegal land use and natural resource encroachment.

Lt Gen Norathip said the government had elevated security threats, natural resource violations and issues involving foreign nationals to top-priority national concerns.

He stressed that all agencies must cooperate closely while ensuring accurate public communication to counter misinformation circulating on social media.

“The protection of national resources, the rights of citizens and public confidence in government administration are crucial,” he said.

The visit followed earlier inspections and meetings in Phuket led by Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul aimed at accelerating solutions to local security and land management problems.

Officials concluded the meeting by reaffirming their commitment to maintaining peace and order while supporting Phuket’s long-term development as a safe and sustainable tourism destination.