PATTANI: Lt Gen Pornsak Poonsawat, the new commander of the 4th Army Region, has declared he will increase efforts to combat the scourge of narcotics in the South.
He expressed his intention to wage war on drugs during a courtesy call on Aziz Pitakkhumpol, the Chularatchamontri -- Thailand's Muslim spiritual leader -- on Sunday after assuming the post of commander of the 4th Army Region.
Lt Gen Pornsak said he will take drastic action against both traffickers and users of drugs, but through peaceful means and in adherence to the law.
He said this will require the full participation of all sectors. A drug suppression centre will be established in every district, he said, from where officials will be deployed to operate in all tambons around the clock.
All officials will hold regular meetings to discuss operational plans and policies, he added.
The new 4th Army chief said he believes it will not be possible to bring development to areas as long as they are still plagued by drugs and unrest.
The Chularatchamontri, in response, said Muslim organisations under his leadership are ready to support the new 4th Army chief's drive to combat drugs.
