Pathum Thani: Thawee Sodsong, the Minister of Justice, inaugurated a new media lab aimed at showcasing the advanced capabilities of the Institute of Forensic Science under the Ministry of Justice. This initiative seeks to position the institute as the leading drug testing center in ASEAN, elevating the approach to drug problem resolution to a regional agenda.
According to Thai News Agency, the event took place at the Institute of Forensic Science in Tambon Ban Mai, Amphoe Mueang Pathum Thani, where key figures including Mr. Aphikit Chor. Rojaprasert, Deputy Secretary-General of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), and Dr. Wirakit Hanpariphan, Director of the Institute of Forensic Science, were present. During the briefing, the focus was on the Wastewater Analysis drug testing method, aimed at tracing drug production sources. This method is set to enhance the institute's role as a knowledge hub for countries within the Mekong River Basin, fostering a systematic network to monitor drug proliferation in the region.
Pol. Col. Thawee emphasized the urgency of addressing the nation's drug issues, which have become increasingly pervasive. He highlighted the government's commitment to resolving these issues comprehensively, ensuring public satisfaction and adherence to the rule of law. By leveraging scientific methods, including drug testing in waterways, the government aims to collaborate internationally to tackle the drug problem. Testing has already been conducted at various points along the Moei River, a border river between Thailand and Myanmar, to trace drug contaminants.
The minister pointed out the significance of detecting psychotropic substances in water from neighboring regions, particularly those inhabited by minority groups. These findings, he noted, underscore the need for developing scientific credibility and addressing the demand for high-income-targeted drugs found in certain areas of the Moei River.
Pol. Col. Thawee also highlighted the collaborative efforts between the Institute of Forensic Science, ONCB, and other agencies, including military and police forces, to combat the drug crisis. He asserted that the institute's lab is among the most advanced in ASEAN, equipped with international-standard technology.
Addressing other drug-related issues, the minister noted ongoing efforts to regulate substances like cannabis and kratom, particularly in the southern border provinces. Through inter-agency cooperation and regional partnerships within ASEAN, the government aims to expedite solutions and enhance border security measures, thus elevating the response to the drug problem to a regional level.