Australia heroin bust spurs Thai airport screening overhaul

BANGKOK: A Thai Airways flight attendant’s arrest in Australia over an alleged heroin-smuggling attempt has prompted Thailand to overhaul airport security.

Under a new “Zero Trust” policy announced Friday, cabin crew and other aviation personnel will undergo the same security screening as ordinary passengers, with no exemptions.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul sees the case as more than an isolated criminal incident, said government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek. It has exposed vulnerabilities in airport security procedures that warrant a broader review of the country’s aviation system, she said.

The move follows the arrest of a 26-year-old Thai Airways cabin crew member at Melbourne Airport on June 25 after Australian authorities allegedly discovered more than 1kg of heroin hidden inside the lining of tote bags. The heroin had an estimated street value of about A$500,000 (US$346,730).

The Thai government said tougher measures include expanded use of drug-sniffing dogs on inbound and outbound flights, particularly on high-risk routes, as well as additional gate screening of passengers, crew and baggage before boarding flights deemed to pose higher risks.

Authorities will also strengthen criminal background and drug screening for employees working in passenger terminals, cargo facilities, warehouses and other restricted areas. Intelligence sharing among customs, immigration, police and aviation agencies will also be expanded.