Thailand: Thailand received five suspects from Laos involved in major drug cases under the government’s “NO drug NO Dealer” policy. Mr. Jirayu Huangsap, Government Spokesperson, revealed that in line with the government’s drug prevention and suppression policy, the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) and security agencies have been cracking down on transnational crimes. This is in line with the cooperation between Lao PDR and Thailand. Today, five fugitives wanted on major drug-related warrants were surrendered. These individuals are wanted on warrants for serious crimes affecting national security and public safety.

According to Thai News Agency, at 11:00 a.m., ONCB officials received the suspect from Laos at the Nong Khai Provincial Customs Office near the First Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge in Mueang Nong Khai District, Nong Khai Province. The suspect was accompanied by Mr. Sompop Samitasiri, Governor of Nong Khai Province; Mr. Apikit Ch. Rojanaprasert, Deputy Secretary-General of ONCB; Mr. Kanisorn Pheeranon, Director of ONCB Region 4; and representatives from 10 security agencies.

This transfer of the accused is in accordance with the project to coordinate international cooperation to take action against five fugitives convicted of serious drug offenses, pursuant to arrest warrants issued by Thai courts. All are charged with conspiracy and jointly committing serious offenses involving Category 1 and 2 narcotics, including importing, possessing, and distributing for commercial purposes, which contributes to the widespread spread of narcotics.

Mr. Jirayu emphasized that this operation is in line with close cooperation between Thailand and Lao PDR in exchanging intelligence and enforcing the law to block escape routes for drug offenders. It also reinforces the government’s position under the “No Drug No Dealer – Uniting Forces for a Drug-Free Community” policy, which aims to seriously eliminate drug problems both domestically and internationally, said Mr. Jirayu.