NEW BASE FOR ANTI-SMUGGLING OPERATIONS

AO MAKHAM: The new Customs House and pier at the Ao Makham Deep Sea
Port, officially opened yesterday, is expected to play a major role in
the protection of the area around the port from various maritime
perils, including smuggling and environmental problems.

The Customs Department will base five vessels there to intercept
fuel-oil smugglers and drug runners. Anti-smuggling operations may
also target yachts entering Phuket that are suspected of carrying drugs.

Other ships under the aegis of the Customs Department will be on
standby to deal with maritime problems such as oil spills and ships in
distress.

Chavalit Sethameteekul, Director General of Customs Department, who
opening the new facility, indicated that the area was ripe for
investment and development.

"There is already a Thai investor interested in building a marina and
shipyard close to the Customs pier," he said. "I'm sure that the pier
area will attract many more investors."