Bangkok: "Phumtham" insists that he is not bullying anyone, after expecting to punish government officials who do not solve the drug problem, saying that it is a period of checking homework, emphasizing that being fierce and serious is the main problem, along with informal debt, pointing out that it comes from the same root cause, which is to deal with influential people.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, acting as Prime Minister, talked about the punishment of government officials who do not solve the drug problem, saying that it depends on the performance. Today, homework has been assigned to governors and permanent secretaries of the Ministry of Interior, the police chiefs, and all levels down, especially at the provincial level.
Mr. Phumtham said that in fact, the operation to crack down on drugs has been underway for some time. Now is the time to check the homework, with importance given to the people who will help check the homework. Although the number of drug inspections has improved, the people in the villages still do not feel it, indicating that there are still problems. If a problem is found, it must be investigated at the appropriate level. If it is at the district level, the district chief and the chief must be responsible. If it is a provincial issue, it falls under the responsibility of the provincial governor and provincial commander. For regions with significant problems, it will escalate to the regional commander. All of which must be considered based on matters related to reality.
Mr. Phumtham insisted that this action was not meant to harass anyone but rather to request cooperation in addressing and solving various problems, especially drug issues. He emphasized the need for societal power, particularly the involvement of people and government officials, to solve the drug problem effectively.
When asked about the expected reduction in the drug problem over the next three months, Mr. Phumtham stated that while it could be set to the maximum, he wanted the efforts to be carried out to the best of their ability, considering the unique problems in each area. He expressed a desire to eliminate discussions about drug problems in Thai society. If comparisons between good and bad areas persist, details must be scrutinized, and those responsible must be held accountable.
Regarding the suppression method, Mr. Phumtham confirmed that solving the problem now is fierce because of the seriousness of the approach. He requested the media to assist in monitoring and investigating, believing that all levels, from the Permanent Secretary to the Police Commissioner and the provincial level, will participate in helping each other. In the next three months, this will serve as an indicator of success. Solving the drug problem remains a primary concern, alongside addressing informal debt, both stemming from the same root cause of dealing with influential individuals involved in crimes.
In the case of the Thai soldier injured by a landmine while patrolling Hill 481, reportedly planted by Cambodia, Mr. Phumtham stated that while discussions on the matter are ongoing, it is crucial to verify facts, as external information may be true or false. This information will be used as a guideline for solving the problem.