Phuket steps up World Anti-Drug Day campaign ahead of June 26
Phuket officials have outlined provincial activities for World Anti-Drug Day on June 26, while district authorities in Thalang and Mueang reported all local leaders tested negative in surprise drug screenings.
Deputy Phuket Governor Adul Chuthong chaired a meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall on May 25 to set out provincial activities for World Anti-Drug Day on June 26 under the national campaign slogan “United Thailand Against Drugs 2026”.
The meeting, held in the Sarasin Meeting Room on the fifth floor of Provincial Hall, brought together representatives from the Office of the Narcotics Control Board, provincial officials and related agencies. Participants discussed campaign activities and criteria for recognising individuals and organisations for outstanding work in drug prevention, suppression and rehabilitation.
Officials said the awards are intended to honour and encourage people and groups actively working to address narcotics problems in Phuket communities.
According to the Phuket Provincial Public Relations Office, the 2026 campaign will centre on three pillars: “UNITE”, aimed at building awareness and mobilising people of all ages against drugs; “SHIELD”, focused on protecting communities and strengthening prevention among children and youth; and “SYNERGY”, promoting cooperation between government agencies, the private sector and civil society through prevention, enforcement and treatment.
Authorities said Phuket remained committed to integrated anti-drug operations to improve public safety and quality of life across the province.
The renewed campaign effort came as district officials in Thalang and Mueang Phuket conducted surprise urine drug tests on local administrative leaders during monthly security meetings on Sunday.
At Thalang District Office, district chief, village heads, assistant village heads, tambon doctors and local administrative officers attending the meeting underwent unannounced screening. Thalang District Office reported that all 135 officials tested negative for narcotics. Officials said the testing was meant to demonstrate transparency and reinforce public confidence in a “white administration” committed to honest public service and drug-free leadership.
The Thalang meeting also covered government security policies, including maintaining public order, monitoring drug activity and ensuring safety for residents and tourists.
In Mueang Phuket District, officials carried out a similar operation during a meeting at the Phuket Provincial Village Headmen Association. District officials said all 119 participants tested negative for drugs. Mueang District Office said the screenings were intended to reinforce urgent government security policies and ensure local leaders set a positive example in anti-drug efforts.
World Anti-Drug Day is observed annually on June 26 as part of international efforts to raise awareness about drug abuse and strengthen prevention campaigns.
