Khao Rang checkpoint arrest nets man with crystal meth

A 31-year-old man was arrested at a checkpoint at Khao Rang in Phuket Town on Sunday, 30 August, after officials seized about 0.31 grammes of crystal meth, officers reported.

The checkpoint was established at about 9.45pm by Mueang Phuket District Office officials and 15 members of the Volunteer Defense Corps, led by Deputy District Chief for Security Affairs Apichat Chantrawong. Officials inspected 25 people, six cars and 17 motorbikes.

The man also tested positive for methamphetamine, according to officers. He was initially charged with possession of narcotics, methamphetamine use and driving a motorbike while under the influence of drugs. He and the seized drugs were handed over to Phuket City Police for further legal action.

Earlier on Sunday, district officials conducted a separate checkpoint in Ratsada, beginning at 8pm outside Nam Yoi Restaurant in Moo 3, Baan Kuku. They inspected 115 people, 17 cars and 80 motorbikes.

Five people were warned, while three e-cigarettes and two knives were confiscated. No arrests were made and nobody was referred to police.

District officials said the checkpoints were part of efforts to increase night-time patrols in public areas and tourist destinations, deter drugs, weapons and other illegal activity, and improve safety for residents and tourists.