Deputy Phuket Governor Adul Chuthong chaired a meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall yesterday (May 25) to outline provincial activities for World Anti-Drug Day on June 26 under the national campaign slogan “United Thailand Against Drugs 2026”.
The meeting, held at the Sarasin Meeting Room on the fifth floor of Provincial Hall, brought together representatives from the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), provincial officials and related agencies to discuss campaign activities and criteria for recognising individuals and organisations with outstanding achievements in drug prevention, suppression and rehabilitation efforts.
Officials said the awards are intended to honour and encourage those actively working to combat narcotics problems in Phuket communities.
According to the Phuket Provincial Public Relations Office, the 2026 campaign will focus on three key pillars: ‘UNITE’, aimed at building awareness and mobilising people of all ages against drugs; ‘SHIELD’, focused on protecting communities and strengthening prevention efforts among children and youth; and ‘SYNERGY’, promoting cooperation between government agencies, the private sector and civil society in tackling drug-related problems through prevention, enforcement and treatment.
Authorities said the province remained committed to integrated anti-drug operations in order to improve public safety and quality of life across Phuket.
The renewed campaign efforts came as district officials in both Thalang and Mueang Phuket carried out surprise urine drug tests on local administrative leaders during monthly security meetings on Sunday.
At Thalang District Office, district chief, village heads, assistant village heads, tambon doctors and local administrative officers attending a monthly meeting were subjected to unannounced drug screening.
Thalang District Office reported that all 135 officials tested negative for narcotics.
Officials said the testing was intended to demonstrate transparency and reinforce public confidence in what they described as a “white administration” committed to honest public service and drug-free leadership.
The district meeting also focused on government security policies, including efforts to maintain public order, monitor drug activity and ensure safety for residents and tourists.
In Mueang Phuket District, a similar operation was conducted during a meeting at the Phuket Provincial Village Headmen Association.
District officials confirmed that all 119 participants tested negative for drugs.
Mueang District Office said the screenings were aimed at reinforcing urgent government security policies and ensuring local leaders set a positive example in anti-drug efforts.
World Anti-Drug Day is observed annually on June 26 as part of international efforts to raise awareness about drug abuse and strengthen prevention campaigns.