The government is considering the introduction of much stricter penalties for amphetamine possession, according to a Nation Thailand report. Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul says his office is preparing an amended ministerial regulation that will be submitted to Cabinet for review.
The revised regulation states that someone found with a single amphetamine tablet on their person will be considered an addict, while someone with more than one tablet in their possession will be classed as a dealer or trafficker. Anutin chairs a committee that is reviewing rehabilitation for drug addicts and currently preparing the revised regulation.
According to the Nation Thailand report, officials are targeting drug dealers who, at present, are able to take advantage of various loopholes. Currently, the regulation states that anyone found with up to 5 amphetamine tablets in their possession is classed as an addict.
Anutin wants the regulation amended to address the problem of drug abuse in Thailand, adding that the country’s prisons don’t have the space to house everyone involved in drug crime.
“The reason is that we need strict measures and proof that legal procedures are effective.”
Anutin says while the police are responsible for legal matters related to drug abuse, his ministry will seek funds to rehabilitate addicts.
SOURCE: Nation Thailand
