THAKSIN TO REVITALISE WAR ON DRUGS

Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has pledged to step up the
government's crackdown on drugs following complaints about the
reemergence prevalence of drugs in several Bangkok districts.

Mr Thaksin, who returned to work this week after a one-month leave,
spoke with a group of around 100 Bangkok residents from Don Muang
District who appeared at Government House Friday morning to ask for
more action against drugs.

Mr Thaksin said drug problems still exist and an urgent and continued
crackdown on their abuse is needed.

Chanting "Thaksin come back, Yaba (methamphetamines) go away," the
supporters voiced their concern regarding the flow of methamphetamines
which they said undermines the quality of life in their communities
and takes away the future of many young people.

The supporters asked Mr Thaksin to return to work on solving drug
problems which, they said, are now re-emerging and plaguing not only
their own communities, but also many others as well.

The government launched a harsh crackdown on drugs during the first
four-year term of its administration. It won criticism from human
rights groups after some 2,500 alleged drug dealers were killed or
disappeared, and praise from many citizens' groups.