Part 6/15:
Thailand ranks second globally in meth seizure volumes, with approximately 75 tons confiscated in 2021 alone. Experts estimate that actual trafficked quantities could be ten times higher, illustrating the vast scope of the problem. Much of the meth produced in Myanmar and neighboring countries is smuggled into Thailand, which acts both as a consumer and a transit hub for international markets.
The pandemic temporarily disrupted trafficking routes, but with borders reopening, the demand and supply are surging anew. The situation has worsened after the 2021 military coup in Myanmar, which has further undermined law enforcement efforts and increased the lawlessness along the border.