Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul Declares Six-Month War on Drugs at ONCB Meeting

Bangkok:Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, chairing the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), declared a six-month war on drugs, focusing on a comprehensive crackdown on narcotics, intercepting traffickers at their source, and disrupting their networks during the 3rd meeting of the Committee on Narcotics Control and Suppression (ONCS Committee) for 2026.

According to Thai News Agency, the meeting, held at the Phakdi Bodin Building, Government House, included key attendees such as Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen, Minister of Defence; Police Lieutenant General Ruddhaphol Naowarat, Minister of Justice; and other high-ranking officials. The Prime Minister emphasized the government's commitment to tackling the drug problem by cutting off the supply chain at its source and collaborating with neighboring countries to intercept drugs before they enter Thailand.

The meeting addressed several crucial issues, including public concerns regarding cannabis, approving the 2027 Action Plan for Drug Prevention and Suppression, and considering special merit awards for officials in 2026. It highlighted the importance of suppressing transnational organized crime networks and international drug trafficking groups. Guidelines for cannabis policy were also discussed, focusing on supporting its use for medical purposes while suppressing recreational activities.

The meeting approved a draft action plan for drug prevention for the fiscal year 2027, to be used by all agencies in developing their respective plans. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of prohibiting unauthorized informants to prevent corruption and emphasized the safety of police officers following recent drug-related incidents. The government remains committed to addressing the drug problem, prioritizing the interception of drugs at their source and ensuring the safety of all personnel involved in these efforts.