Operation ‘Cutting Off the Root of the Drug Network’ in Northern Thailand Seizes Assets Worth 66 Million Baht
In a significant operation aimed at dismantling major drug trafficking networks in Northern Thailand, authorities have seized assets worth 66 million Baht. The operation, dubbed ‘Cutting Off the Root of the Drug Network,’ was led by Police Major General Thawee Sodsong, the Minister of Justice, in collaboration with a task force comprising military, police, and prosecution officials.
Cracking Down on Drug Trafficking
The joint task force, consisting of over 150 officers, launched the operation to crackdown on drug trafficking activities in the border regions of Northern Thailand. The operation targeted 13 specific locations in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai provinces known for harboring significant drug networks. This initiative is part of a larger government strategy to address the drug problem in 25 urgent provinces within 90 days, under the plan “Accelerated Operation to Prevent and Suppress Drug Problems in a 3-Month Urgency Phase.”
The primary objective of the operation was to dismantle the drug trafficking network of former UWSA Deputy Commander Jia Lo Bo, who is linked to a major drug trafficker named Weerachai Muendee. In March 2567, authorities arrested four suspects and seized a substantial amount of drugs, including 309 kilograms of ice and 230 kilograms of heroin in Fang district, Chiang Mai province.
Breaking Down the Seized Assets
The assets seized in the operation included real estate, bank accounts, cash, vehicles, gold ornaments, and other valuables associated with drug-related offenses. The breakdown of the seized assets is as follows:
1. Real estate properties – 20 plots valued at approximately 61,450,000 Baht
2. Bank accounts – 16 accounts totaling around 472,000 Baht
3. Cash – approximately 210,000 Baht
4. Vehicles – 6 cars worth an estimated 3,000,000 Baht
5. Gold ornaments – 7 items valued at around 570,000 Baht
6. Other assets – 10 items totaling approximately 400,000 Baht
In total, the value of the seized assets amounted to 66,102,000 Baht. The authorities emphasized that the operation was conducted in accordance with the government’s policy to combat drug trafficking effectively and enforce the law rigorously against influential individuals or groups involved in illicit activities.
Enforcing International Cooperation
The success of the operation highlighted the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational drug trafficking. By leveraging the provisions of the Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Act of 2535 B.E. (MLAT), Thai authorities were able to disrupt the drug supply chain, reduce the proliferation of drugs within the country, and alleviate public concerns about drug-related issues.
The authorities reiterated their commitment to upholding human rights for all individuals involved, while continuing their relentless efforts to eradicate drug trafficking. The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) pledged to maintain its efforts in combating drug trafficking and enforcing the law effectively, in collaboration with various national and international agencies.
In conclusion, the successful operation ‘Cutting Off the Root of the Drug Network’ in Northern Thailand signifies a significant step towards eradicating drug trafficking in the region. The seizure of assets worth 66 million Baht underscores the government’s determination to tackle drug-related crimes and ensure the safety and well-being of the populace. By prioritizing international cooperation and enforcing stringent laws, Thailand is making strides in combating the global menace of drug trafficking.
