SUPPRESSION DRIVE TO BE STEPPED UP

Narcotics officials are to step up their suppression drive against Hmong
communities in Thailand as part of efforts to wipe out drug gangs using the
communities as their storage and transit points.

A serious crackdown is planned once the local and special branch police
wrap up their investigation into Tuesday's bomb blast at Wat Tham Krabok.

The explosion was suspected to be the work of drug traders operating in
Hmong communities scattered around the country. Special branch police were
assigned to keep a close watch on Hmong communities in Khek Noi
sub-district in Petchabun and Pob Pra district in Tak.

The two communities are notorious for methamphetamine distribution to all
parts of the country.