Mae rim: The Army Commander-in-Chief visited the Pha Muang Task Force, emphasizing strict border security and drug interdiction in the northern region.
According to Thai News Agency, on January 24, 2026, General Phana Klaewplodthuk, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, along with his delegation, visited and assessed the security situation of the border defense forces in the Pha Muang Task Force area, located in Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province. During this visit, they were briefed on border defense and drug suppression efforts by the Pha Muang Task Force. Lieutenant General Chaturong Chantranont, Director of the Security Policy and Strategy Office, Internal Security Operations Command, also received a briefing on security missions, with a focus on drug suppression activities, from the Northern Border Narcotics Suppression and Precursor Chemical Command (NB.YS.35), which is the primary unit coordinating military, police, and related agencies to address drug problems in the northern border region systematically.
The main mission of the Pha Muang Task Force is to monitor and protect the borders adjacent to Myanmar and Laos, while addressing security concerns in these areas. Since October 1, 2025, they have ramped up efforts to prevent and suppress drug trafficking and other illegal activities. To date, they have intercepted 180 drug smuggling attempts, seizing methamphetamine valued at 12,784,365,900 baht, heroin worth 1,325,500 baht, and crystal methamphetamine worth 1,522,208,585 baht.
The Army Commander highlighted the necessity for units in the Thai-Myanmar border area to closely monitor the security situation, with a particular focus on the suppression of transnational crime and the evolving methods of drug trafficking. He emphasized the need to enhance patrol efficiency, establish checkpoints, and integrate border surveillance systems according to the Army's master plan. Units are to strictly adhere to legal procedures and coordinate with relevant agencies to intercept illegal immigration, combat drug trafficking, and prevent encroachment on sovereign territory. These measures aim to ensure sustainable security and order along the border.