DRUGS TOP PRIORITY FOR NEW GOVERNOR

PHUKET TOWN: A more intense campaign against illegal drugs is the top
priority of the new Governor CEO, Udomsak Usawarangkura, who stepped behind
his desk on October 1.

Coincidentally, October 1 also marked the beginning of a two-month
nationwide campaign to eradicate illegal drugs from Thailand. It is hoped
that by December 2, all 76 provinces will be able to declare that the
campaign has been successful.

Vice-Governor Pongpow Ketthong told the Gazette that the provincial
government started a crackdown on illegal drugs in February. Since then, he
said, almost 80% of drug takers and dealers who were arrested or volunteered
for treatment have been rehabilitated.

On his first day in office, the new Governor CEO, accompanied by 200 to 300
local officers, went to the Thavorn Grand Hotel to hear a national broadcast
against drugs by Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

Speaking before K. Udomsak arrived, V/Gov Pongpow said, "The new Governor
will also announce the Phuket policy to eradicate illegal drugs.

"The policy will be successful if people in every community help to look
after their own people and do not always rely on officials."

K. Udomsak arrived in Phuket on September 30, which he spent settling in
with a visit to the Heroines' Monument and a lunch with some of his senior
staff at his new home.