Worasit emphasized that Prime Minister Anutin has ordered a crackdown on influential figures in all areas. He explained that the strict measures in Phuket remain because some groups still do not fear the law. He hopes the situation will improve and warned that if government officials are involved and proven so, they must be held accountable.
At 08:20 on 17 June 2026 GMT+7, Worasit Liangprasert, Deputy Minister of the Interior, spoke at the Government House regarding the case of Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, who instructed the three Deputy Ministers of the Interior to accelerate the crackdown on influential figures in Phuket Province, saying it is not only in Phuket but in all areas with this issue, including Phuket, Koh Phangan in Surat Thani Province, and Krabi Province. Everyone is currently working intensively on this. He reiterated that the effort covers all areas because allowing certain groups or individuals to misuse power to intimidate others is unacceptable.
When asked if the Prime Minister felt frustrated about Phuket since he had visited but there was no progress in the crackdown, Worasit stated, it is not that there is no progress. The Prime Minister's visit is part of the process, but some groups still behave as if they do not fear the law, which is quite serious.
Regarding whether progress or improvement is expected after removing problematic figures and assigning new officials, Worasit responded that they certainly hope for better results. As everyone knows, the situation in Phuket is currently quite chaotic, so the team sent by the Prime Minister is highly expected to achieve success.
When asked about the timeframe for this operation, Worasit said there is no fixed deadline but it must be as fast as possible. According to information received, not only the executive branch but also the legislature is paying close attention, with several parliamentary committees set to investigate this issue.
In response to concerns about government officials being involved with influential figures and still remaining in those areas, the Deputy Minister of the Interior revealed, if anyone is found involved and it can be proven, they will be dealt with accordingly. If those involved remain in the area, it enables influential groups to operate there, which is unacceptable. The Prime Minister’s policy is clear: any government official involved must be held accountable.