Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered a tougher nationwide crackdown on crime, adding public safety is essential to economic growth.
Speaking at a security policy meeting in Chon Buri on Wednesday, Mr Anutin said the government would support officials enforcing the law and urged provincial administrations to make crime suppression a top priority.
He said the eastern region, one of Thailand's key tourism and economic hubs, faced increasingly complex threats, including drug trafficking, cybercrime, online scams, illegal gambling and organised crime.
Such offences undermine public safety, damage the economy and erode confidence in the rule of law, he said.
He cited recent operations against online scam syndicates and illegal gambling networks as evidence of the government's determination to tackle organised crime, adding that officials should not fear interference while carrying out their duties, as the government had their back.
"No one who breaks the law should believe they are beyond the reach of justice," he said, adding authorities must not allow criminals to operate freely in areas under their responsibility.
Describing Chon Buri as a province with a strong economy and thriving tourism sector, Mr Anutin said authorities must prevent criminal activity from harming livelihoods or jeopardising future opportunities.
The government would stand behind law enforcement officers who acted honestly and decisively, adding that those who took legal action against criminal groups would receive support for doing so rather than face repercussions.
Mr Anutin outlined three priorities for provincial administrations.
The first is prevention through closer cooperation among provincial authorities, police, the military and local communities to tackle drugs, cybercrime and organised crime before problems escalate.
The second is firm and consistent law enforcement based strictly on the rule of law, without yielding to political or criminal influence.
The third is improving public services by strengthening complaint centres, enhancing police response capabilities and ensuring faster assistance for the public.
He also called for closer cooperation between governors and provincial police commanders, with the model to be expanded nationwide to district level.
The initiative forms part of the government's 90-day anti-drug campaign, which Mr Anutin said could reduce narcotics problems through coordinated local action.
