Governor Sophon made his remarks yesterday (Nov 11) after the latest police report on the situation of illegal drugs on Phuket’s streets was released.
One key area of concern is the increased use of electronic cigarettes among Phuket’s youngsters, with availability especially prevalent in school’s across the island.
Further statistics from the report point to an uprise in youngsters developing and consuming a more diverse and potent form of kratom water.
The distribution and use of other drugs such as methamphetamine, ice, ecstasy, heroin and cocaine is also still widely evident, the report said.
However, Governor Sophon was quick to point to the fact that Phuket has strict measures in place to prevent and reduce the problem of illegal drugs, citing the ongoing work by police which is resulting in regular arrests of dealers and users which, in time, will see the numbers of offences decrease.
Particular focus has been afforded to monitoring the network of suppliers that transport illegal drugs into Phuket, something that is very much regarded as the root cause behind the problem, Governor Sophon explained.
The “outbreak” of e-cigarettes in educational institutions is a concern and one that is being watched very closely, he added.
The clampdown on the illegal drug trade aligns with the national agenda which is focused on complete suppression to ensure order and peace within society.