A surge in illegal drug trafficking from Myanmar into Thailand has been reported, significantly linked to the ongoing civil conflict in Myanmar. Thai authorities noted a dramatic increase in drug seizures including methamphetamines and heroin, while organized crime networks continue to align with rebel groups to facilitate production and trafficking. Market prices for meth pills are declining, highlighting the challenges in controlling this growing crisis.
A recent report indicates a dramatic rise in illegal drug trafficking from Myanmar into Thailand, attributed primarily to ongoing civil conflict within Myanmar. Apikit Ch.Rojprasert, the deputy secretary-general of Thailand’s Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), stated that the northern border continues to serve as the principal route for drug shipments, including methamphetamines and heroin. The data highlights an alarming increase in drug seizures within Thailand, with methamphetamine tablets reaching 346 million seized in 2023, growing 172% over previous measurements. Crystal meth seizures also surged by 39%, totaling 6.48 tons for the same period, while heroin seizures have returned to significant levels, with 327 kg confiscated this year alone. The involvement of organized crime networks appears entrenched, with alleged collaborations with militia groups to establish large-scale drug production facilities in Myanmar’s conflict zones. General Narit Thanwornwong, commanding officer of Thailand’s drug suppression unit, commented on the expectation that a substantial number of meth pills remain unseized and ready for trafficking into Thailand. Contrastingly, despite the increase in seizures, the market price of methamphetamine has declined, indicating that far greater quantities of drugs are likely evading capture. This reflects a complex interplay between the burgeoning drug trade, armed conflict, and local economic factors in the region, necessitating vigilant efforts from Thai authorities alongside neighboring countries.
The civil unrest in Myanmar has escalated into a full-blown civil war since the military coup in 2021, leading to intensified fighting between the military and various armed opposition groups. This disruption has facilitated the proliferation of illegal drug production, particularly in Myanmar’s Shan and Kachin states, which are known for their high opium production and methamphetamine manufacturing. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has reported that the political instability has directly contributed to the increase in synthetic drug trafficking and cultivation of opium poppies. The demand for drugs in neighboring Thailand remains high, creating a lucrative market for traffickers who exploit the ongoing conflicts to sustain their operations.
In conclusion, the ongoing civil war in Myanmar has led to significant disruptions in the region but has simultaneously fueled an alarming increase in the drug trade, particularly in methamphetamines and heroin. The collaboration between organized crime and rebel factions complicates the enforcement efforts by Thai authorities, who are witnessing record drug seizures. Despite these efforts, the falling prices of methamphetamine tablets suggest that much of the drug trafficking remains unchecked.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
