Phuket MP Alleges Extortion by Local Officials at Drug Checkpoints

On September 16, 2026, Chalermpong Saengdee, a People's Party MP for Phuket, publicly addressed reports of alleged misconduct by local officials in the Thalang district. According to information shared via his social media, residents have reported that a group of officials, referred to as the 'black-clad unit' or Thalang District Volunteer Defense Corps (Or Sor), have been operating drug checkpoints near a convenience store in the Bang Jo area.

The allegations suggest that individuals detained at these checkpoints are taken to a building behind the Thalang District Office, where they are allegedly coerced into paying between 6,000 and 15,000 baht in cash to secure their release. These claims initially surfaced through a local community page, 'Pa Khang Ban in Phuket,' before being highlighted by the MP.

For residents and visitors in Phuket, these allegations highlight potential concerns regarding the transparency and conduct of local security operations. While the MP has called for an official investigation into these claims, the details remain unverified. It is currently unclear whether an internal inquiry has been launched by provincial authorities or if specific individuals have been identified. Travelers and residents are advised to remain aware of local developments as official investigations proceed to determine the veracity of these reports.