PHUKET, THAILAND – Police in Phuket announced an unprecedented security operation for the Electric Daisy Carnival after two drug-linked festival deaths last year.
Hundreds of officers deployed for festival security
Provincial police chief Pol Lt Gen Sinlert Sukhum said authorities significantly stepped up security around the Electric Daisy Carnival grounds.
“More than 200 officers were assigned solely to secure the venue. They were stationed at all entrances and carried out strict checks for drugs,”
said Sinlert Sukhum, provincial police chief. In total, about 700 police officers were on duty, supported by 300 private security staff from the organisers and up to 200 volunteers.
Last year’s deaths cast a long shadow
The large-scale deployment followed two deaths of young festival-goers during EDC 2025. Forensic examinations later found traces of drugs in their bodies, although the exact source of the substances remained unclear.
“Drugs were not the only factor. Extreme weather, physical exhaustion and lack of sleep played a role,”
said Sinlert Sukhum, adding that the investigation left many questions open.
Zero-tolerance strategy against drug smuggling
Experience from last year, when police arrested several drug smugglers, shaped the new strategy.
“We already had full checks at all entrances. This measure will remain in place this year,”
said the police chief, noting that searches at every entry point had become standard. Police coordinated closely with organisers to block every possible channel for drugs, enforcing a strict zero-tolerance policy.
Health risks seen as biggest challenge
Authorities acknowledged they could not control every risk and therefore appealed directly to festival-goers. They stressed that personal health precautions and self-care were crucial to preventing further tragedies. Heat, dehydration and overexertion in dense crowds were described as dangers that could become life-threatening even without drug use.
High-stakes test for Phuket’s festival image
The Electric Daisy Carnival was presented as a multimillion-baht project and a key image driver for the tourist island of Phuket. After the deaths, officials said the event’s reputation was at stake and that Thailand wanted to prove it could host safe mega-events. At the same time, they emphasised that celebrations should not be overwhelmed by security concerns, framing the effort as a delicate balance between fun and safety.
What festival visitors needed to know
Visitors were warned to expect strict checks, with bag and body searches described as standard procedure. Authorities underlined that possession of even small amounts of drugs could lead to immediate arrest and severe penalties under Thailand’s uncompromising drug laws. The stated advice to guests was to enjoy the music and atmosphere, but to do so with a clear head, as their lives could depend on it.