Pubdate: Fri, 27 Jun 2008
Source: Bangkok Post (Thailand)
Copyright: The Post Publishing Public Co., Ltd. 2008
Contact:  http://www.bangkokpost.co.th/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/39
Authors: Sunthorn Pongpao, and Methee Muangkaew

ANNUAL INCINERATION

15 Tonnes Of Illegal Drugs Worth B10bn Destroyed

AYUTTHAYA : Armed police commandos were deployed to secure the 
destruction of 15 tonnes of drugs worth over 10 billion baht 
yesterday. The drugs were incinerated to mark the International Day 
Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, in Bang Pa-in Industrial Estate.

They served as evidence in 2,915 cases which had been decided by the 
courts, and were kept at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
warehouses in the province.

Among the illicit drugs were 32 million methamphetamine pills, 
weighing around three tonnes.

Public Health Minister Chaiya Sasomsab presided over the 36th annual 
ritual to destroy illegal drugs stockpiles. Another 18 tonnes of 
drugs are still being stored at the FDA warehouses pending court proceedings.

Mr Chaiya said the number of illicit drugs seized had doubled from 
last year, but gave no figure. The country has 200,000 drug addicts, 
of whom 60,000 were treated last year, he said.

In Trang, over 1,000 students and residents took part in a march 
along four routes in the municipality to promote the government's 
anti-drugs campaign.

Trang governor Anond Manasvanich then led an oath-swearing ceremony 
where the youngsters pledged to stay clear of drugs.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom