Tucked away within Thailand’s pristine island of Phuket lies a hidden world that is anything but a tropical paradise. While this destination is famed for serene beaches and vivid nightlife, its shadowy underbelly reveals a different story. In an alarming development, Phuket’s authorities are intensifying their efforts to curb a surge in drug-related crimes that has cast a long shadow over its renowned allure.
Recent statistics shed light on the gravity of the issue, with a staggering 1,899 drug cases recorded between October 2024 and May 2025. This figure marks an unsavory rise of over 10% compared to the same period the previous year. These unsettling numbers led the top brass of law enforcement and health departments to congregate for the seventh Phuket Provincial Narcotics Control Centre meeting, which was held at the iconic Provincial Hall on a steamy Sunday, June 22. Here, amid the clinking of iced water glasses, officials unraveled strategies to stem the tide of this worrisome trend.
Leading the charge was Chief Administrative Officer Akkrawat Sirithanthanakorn. Flanked by stalwarts from the Narcotics Control Board Region 8, as well as the Phuket Public Health Office and other key agencies, he spearheaded discussions on a unified response to Phuket’s growing drug menace. The picturesque Mueang Phuket district, often in tourists’ photo albums, scored an unwanted accolade as the epicenter of the crisis, logging a jaw-dropping 917 cases — nearly half of the island’s total count. Trailing behind were Thalang with 672 cases and Kathu with 310.
In the quest for clarity, officials turned to the incisive NISPA system, which unmasked startling facts: 20 villages in Mueang were branded as red zones, where drug use and open dealing thrive. Thalang’s scene was slightly subdued with five hotspots, while Kathu stayed out of the red but couldn’t escape the harsh truth of active users in six villages. Adding a layer of complexity to the crisis, tourists flocking to the island’s incandescent beaches are inadvertently fueling the flames; drug prices escalate in these localities, with connections often dictating who gets access to the always-evolving narcotics buffet.
Among an eclectic range of substances, methamphetamine pills (affectionately referred to as “Yaba” or “crazy medicine”) top the popularity chart, cherished for their affordability and easy availability. For those with deeper pockets, crystal meth — the notorious “ya ice” — and cocaine cater to the whims of wealthier thrill-seekers, firmly securing a fan base among visitors and the expat community. Less prevalent but far from extinct, heroin weaves through niche user groups. While the month of May teased officials with a glimmer of hope — showcasing a 14% drop in cases from April — the overall situation remains precarious.
As the International Day Against Drug Abuse looms on June 26, local authorities are rallying the troops to launch a plethora of community outreach and awareness initiatives, desperate to reverse the chilling trend. The Provincial Narcotics Control Board emphasized that the fight against narcotics extends beyond mere arrests. It demands a holistic approach that encompasses treatment, prevention, and the proactive involvement of local communities.
Indeed, Phuket may be the quintessential destination for holidaymakers, a beacon of sunlit joy. Yet, officials are on a quest to ensure it doesn’t become an island paradise forever altered by the relentless grip of narcotics. Amidst the fight, there’s a resilient spirit determined to reclaim Phuket’s splendor from the clutches of its clandestine adversary.
This is just another example of tourists ruining local cultures. They come for the beaches and nightlife but leave behind a trail of destruction.
I disagree. Tourists can’t be held accountable for the root issues of drug abuse. The problem is internal and needs local solutions.
But tourism fuels the economy, which inadvertently funds these illegal activities. It’s a vicious cycle.
Phuket benefits greatly from tourism revenues. Blaming tourists entirely misses the mark. The authorities need to regulate better.
It’s tragic that such a beautiful place is being overshadowed by crime. Authorities need a strong crackdown on drug dealers.
Crackdowns often mean more violence and don’t address the root cause. A comprehensive education and rehab plan is what they need.
I live here and feel like both education and enforcement are needed. A balanced approach is vital.
I visited Phuket last year and can’t believe it has such a problem. It always seemed so peaceful.
People often stereotype drug addiction as primarily a local problem, but it’s prevalent in tourist spots everywhere.
You’re right, this isn’t just a Phuket problem. It’s a global one. Many vacation spots hide their dark sides under a glossy surface.
Why is nothing ever mentioned about the effectiveness of prevention programs? We always hear about the failures.
Probably because successful prevention isn’t as sensational as the crimes themselves. The media loves a good scare story.
You may be right. Still, I’d like to read about some success stories for a change.
Drugs have been a problem here for years, and it keeps getting worse despite the government meetings and promises.
That’s because meetings alone don’t solve anything. True change requires community involvement and consistent follow-through.
How can tourists feel safe visiting if drugs and crime are rampant?
Truth is, it’s not as scary as it sounds. If you stick to well-known areas, you’re usually safe.
The connection between wealth and drug access is a problem worldwide. Phuket just fits the pattern. It’s about time we addressed inequality.
Reducing drug access will likely require international cooperation, not just local efforts.
Community programs might help, but only if well-designed and genuinely supported by local leaders.
Exactly, Terry! Token gestures won’t solve deep-rooted issues.
Irrespective of the crime stats, Phuket is still one of the safest tourist destinations if you use common sense.