Narathiwat: Illegal sand dredging activities along Sungai Golok, which forms the border between Thailand and Malaysia, have been identified as one of the main causes of soil erosion and changes in the river’s flow, potentially affecting the stability of the border area between the two countries. Vice Governor of Narathiwat Province, Wichan Chaisetsumpan, highlighted that Sungai Golok is a hotspot for these activities, particularly near the Malaysian border, including the Waeng district.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Thai authorities have intensified their surveillance of illegal operations, taking immediate actions following reports from Malaysian authorities about the use of heavy machinery along the river. In a recent incident in Waeng district, intelligence from Malaysia led to the seizure of two excavators and the arrest of several individuals involved in illegal dredging. This development underscores the robust cooperation between the security agencies of both countries in addressing cross-border environmental crimes.
Wichan emphasized the necessity of collaborative efforts to safeguard the border area, highlighting the importance of ongoing communication and coordinated operations between security officers from both countries to ensure effective enforcement and the preservation of shared natural resources.
Addressing the issue of drug smuggling along Sungai Golok, Wichan noted that the province shares a border with Malaysia through several districts, including Waeng, Sukhirin, Si Sakhon, and Chanae, covering several hundred kilometers, with about 95 kilometers running along Sungai Golok and mountainous terrain. The river route is often exploited by drug trafficking syndicates to transport supplies into Malaysia due to certain shallow and easily crossable sections.
He pointed out that the higher street value of drugs in the Malaysian market compared to Thailand is a driving factor for these syndicates. However, Thai security agencies have been proactive, with police and military forces conducting integrated operations that have led to multiple arrests and the seizure of large quantities of illicit substances. Investigations into detained suspects have revealed that most intended to smuggle drugs into Malaysia.
To tackle the issue comprehensively, Wichan mentioned that several joint meetings have been held between Thai and Malaysian authorities, including in the Sungai Golok district, involving various border management agencies. Both police forces have agreed to enhance intelligence-sharing on drug-trafficking networks and conduct joint patrols along the border to strengthen control and reduce smuggling risks.