Govt to crack down on 'party pills'

Deputy Public Health Minister Torpong Chaiyasarn Tuesday warned people found with so-called "party pills" - a popular tranquilliser among Thai teens and the rich and also used in date rape - could face jail or even a death sentence

He said the Medical Science Department and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would categorise the pills as a "Class 1" narcotic (along with heroin and cocaine) in the Royal Decree soon. The Public Health Ministry would conduct strict searches for the drug.

Torpong was asked about control over cold medicines containing precursor chemicals frequently used in the production of illicit drugs that were sold overthecounter. Torpong said the FDA had the power to conduct random checking of pharmacy shops, including unlicensed ones, looking for those selling dangerous medicines without a pharmacist's supervision or doctor's prescription. Such lawbreaking stores should beware of the FDA, he said.

The Nation