On May 27, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra delivered a keynote speech titled “Narcotics and Transnational Crime: Perspectives and Challenges for Sustainable Solutions” at the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB). The event was part of the 3rd 2025 meeting of the national anti-drug operations committee. It was attended by several key officials, including Deputy PM Phumtham Wechayachai, Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong, and National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kitirat Phanphet.
Thaksin warned that drug trafficking is a growing threat that urgently requires integration across agencies. He emphasized that the production base has shifted almost entirely to Wa State in Myanmar, with Thailand serving as the largest regional market due to its relative wealth. He highlighted the inadequacy of current efforts, citing lack of coordination among 29 agencies and outdated, fragmented bureaucratic structures.
He proposed reviving strategic, integrated operations like nationwide scanning ("X-ray") of communities and fostering inter-agency collaboration—particularly between police and provincial administration. Thaksin also criticized border control weaknesses and suggested cutting off electricity and communication lines to drug production sites as deterrents.
He proposed:
- Establishing drug rehab centers in every willing district
- Creating reward systems for effective enforcement
- Intensifying surveillance and seizure of traffickers' assets
- Deepening cooperation with neighboring countries, especially Myanmar
Thaksin urged police, military, and customs to clamp down on cross-border smuggling and called on Interior and Education Ministries to lead long-term prevention efforts. He stressed treating addicts through public health frameworks and educating youth from early childhood.
In closing, he pledged personal involvement in grassroots drug inspections and promised to report issues directly to Interior officials. He concluded by affirming his readiness to support PM Paetongtarn "Ung Ing" Shinawatra's administration by reconnecting with the people and pushing for national reform.