CHIANG MAI– The Northern Thailand Border Drug Suppression Command task force has shared the results of its “Seal Stop Safe” operation across 21 northern border districts in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, and Phayao.
Over the past six months, officers intercepted more than 233 million meth pills and over 8,000 kilograms of crystal meth. Authorities dismantled 24 drug networks, seized assets worth more than 389 million baht, and set up community drug watch teams in 1,553 villages.
On August 8, 2025, officials from various agencies met at Green Lake Resort in Chiang Mai to review the operation’s progress. The report was led by Lieutenant General Kittipong Chuenjaichon, head of the Northern Border Drug Suppression Command.
Other key provincial, police, and army representatives attended, including those from customs and anti-drug agencies.
The government has listed drug trafficking as a top priority, with several agencies working together to tighten security in 51 border districts across 14 provinces. While large amounts of drugs have been seized, trafficking routes still exist, with drugs continuing to reach inner provinces and even being smuggled to third countries.
In response, the “Seal Stop Safe” plan was launched, focusing on stopping drugs from getting past the northern border and into communities. The operation ran from February 1 to July 31, 2025, using the principles of securing borders (Seal), breaking trafficking cycles (Stop), and creating safe neighbourhoods (Safe).
Six provinces and 21 border districts were the main focus, including:
- Chiang Mai: Mae Ai, Fang, Chiang Dao, Wiang Haeng, Chai Prakan
- Chiang Rai: Mae Chan, Mae Fah Luang, Mae Sai, Chiang Saen, Chiang Khong, Wiang Kaen, Thoeng
- Mae Hong Son: Pai, Pang Mapha
- Phayao: Phu Sang
- Nan: Chalerm Phrakiat
- Tak: Umphang, Phop Phra, Mae Sot, Mae Ramat, Tha Song Yang
Lt Gen. Kittipong Jamsuwan said the operation, despite running for only six months, showed clear results. Teams confiscated more than 233 million meth pills and nearly 8,800 kilograms of crystal meth, along with other precursor chemicals used to make drugs.
Twenty-five traffickers lost their lives during clashes. Compared to last year, seizures of meth pills grew by 33% per month, and crystal meth seizures tripled.
Law enforcement also hit criminal networks hard, arresting 24 key groups and pursuing related cases. A total of 1,985 serious drug cases were processed, and criminal assets worth over 389 million baht were taken.
Villages played an important role too, with all 1,553 targeted communities now running their neighbourhood watch programs. These teams help gather information, monitor for threats, and work with authorities to keep drugs out.
The crackdown has changed trafficking patterns. Some gangs moved their operations to new areas like Nan province or parts of northeastern Thailand. Smugglers now use different transport methods, such as sending drugs through parcels, quick hand-offs, and dividing shipments to avoid detection.
The tougher border checks have also pushed up the prices paid to local traffickers and made it harder for gangs to find willing couriers.
Lt. Gen. Kittipong described “Seal Stop Safe” as an effective way to unite all sectors—soldiers, police, local officials, and the public. Offices like ONCB Region 5 and 6 coordinated efforts, with extra help from customs, prosecutors, industrial regulators, and the foreign ministry. Community members provided valuable tips and support.
Even though the official timeframe for “Seal Stop Safe” has ended, local agencies continue to protect the borders, targeting drugs, precursor chemicals, and smuggling. Teams are also turning to new tools like drones, infrared cameras, and data systems to improve how they work and respond to threats.
