Bangkok: The government has confirmed plans to establish drug rehabilitation centers at the district level by 2027, emphasizing the need for a specific approach to tackle the drug problem in the southern border provinces.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, stated that addressing drug abuse remains a top priority for Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who also serves as the Minister of Interior. Meetings with relevant agencies at the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center in Yala Province and the Internal Security Operations Command Region 4 Forward Headquarters in Pattani Province have underscored the need for tailored strategies. Despite progress in suppressing drug trafficking, the spread of drugs, particularly methamphetamine, continues to be a concern, especially among youth and young women, with some progressing into small-scale dealers.
Feedback from local residents highlights the necessity of having drug rehabilitation centers near their communities. These centers should provide continuous care and have an effective referral system to ensure long-term treatment, aiming to reduce problems of escape and relapse.
The Prime Minister has affirmed the government's commitment to establishing quality district-level drug rehabilitation centers by 2027, with a prepared budget plan. He stressed the importance of a specific approach that involves families, religion, educational institutions, local administrative organizations, and security agencies to effectively address the drug problem in the southern border provinces. The government aims to combat drug trafficking through both suppression and rehabilitation measures to enhance the safety and quality of life for all residents.