Thai Parliament Drug Tests Detect Morphine in Two Security Officers
Thai Parliament Drug Tests Detect Morphine in Two Security Officers
BANGKOK, May 22, 2026 — Two security officers working at Thailand’s parliament complex tested positive for morphine during routine drug screening, prompting further investigation by anti-narcotics authorities, officials said on Friday.
The screenings were conducted under a workplace drug prevention policy introduced by Parliament President Sophon Saram and covered parliament police officers, security personnel and transport staff stationed at the parliamentary complex.
Initial reports described one case as a “purple urine” result, a term commonly associated in Thailand with narcotics detection, sparking speculation over illegal drug use. However, officials from the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) later clarified that the tests detected morphine only and were not linked to methamphetamine use.
Jess Anukulphokharat, director of the parliament Security Office, said two individuals were found to have morphine in their systems during the checks conducted on May 22.
According to officials, one officer submitted medical documents confirming the prescribed use of morphine-based pain medication. The second officer reportedly suffers from underlying health conditions and regularly takes several medications but had not yet provided supporting documentation.
Authorities said samples of the second officer’s medication have now been forwarded to the ONCB for laboratory examination, while parliament’s medical office has also been consulted to determine whether additional testing or administrative action is required.
Officials stressed that no suspensions or compulsory rehabilitation measures have been ordered because investigators have not reached a final conclusion regarding the source of the morphine.
Both officers are continuing to work normally while the investigation remains ongoing.
The case has drawn attention because Thailand has intensified workplace drug screening across government institutions as part of broader anti-narcotics policies aimed at improving public sector integrity and security.
Amarin television reported that ONCB investigators are focusing specifically on identifying how morphine entered the officers’ systems and reiterated that the findings do not indicate methamphetamine use.
Further medical reviews and laboratory analysis are expected before authorities issue a final determination.
