Ang thong: Ang Thong Province has announced a comprehensive plan to tackle the drug problem within the next three months, in response to a policy directive from the Minister of Interior. Mr. Chawanin Wongstathirakarn, Governor of Ang Thong Province, led the initiative, with a focus on achieving rapid results through the "Operation to Protect Ang Thong, 2 months to see results, people are at ease" strategy.
According to Thai News Agency, the initiative was unveiled at a meeting attended by key officials, including Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, and representatives from various government agencies. The meeting, held at the 100th Anniversary Meeting Room of Mae Nang Nai, Wat Nang Nai Kindergarten School, was also broadcast live to district offices across the province. Attendees included deputy governors, police officials, health experts, and local leaders, all of whom were briefed on the new guidelines aimed at engaging public participation in combating drug issues.
Governor Chawanin detailed the integrated approach of Ang Thong Province, emphasizing the "4 clear" strategies: setting clear goals by targeting and surveying specific groups, establishing clear mechanisms through operational teams, implementing clear methods including arrests and rehabilitation, and achieving clear operational results with weekly summaries. He emphasized the "touch" process, which involves close monitoring and intervention at the village and sub-district levels to prevent drug involvement and promote community well-being.
The action plan is divided into two phases. In July, officials will conduct a comprehensive survey of villages to develop a detailed understanding of drug-related activities. August will see intensified efforts, with security forces closing off and searching known drug areas, setting up checkpoints, and pursuing legal action against offenders. Rehabilitation efforts will be tailored to the severity of addiction, utilizing mechanisms like community touch teams and specialized treatment centers like 'Warm Home' and 'Mini Thanyarak' for severe cases.
The initiative culminated in the signing of the 'Declaration of Unity to Suppress Drug Problems' by district chiefs and police superintendents, signaling a united front in the fight against drugs in Ang Thong Province.