Thailand Releases 3,071 Inmates Convicted for Marijuana Offenses
On June 9, 2022, the Department of Corrections in Thailand released 3,071 inmates who had been serving sentences for the use and possession of marijuana. This mass release followed the announcement of an amnesty related to the legalization of industrial cannabis in the country.
Closure of Cannabis-Related Criminal Cases
Before the amnesty, 4,075 Thai citizens were incarcerated for crimes related to smoking and possessing marijuana. Of these, 1,004 were also convicted of other offenses and therefore remained in prison, while 3,071 were set free. Those released are now eligible to apply for the return of confiscated funds totaling 110 million baht (about 186 million rubles) and 16,030 kilograms of marijuana.
Inmates were notified in advance about the upcoming amnesty, allowing their relatives and friends to meet them at the gates of correctional facilities.
Justice Ministry Orders Dismissal of Cases
The Thai Ministry of Justice also ordered law enforcement agencies to close 7,488 criminal cases related to the illegal use and possession of marijuana. Additionally, the authorities will erase all records of arrests and convictions for these offenses.
Legalization of Industrial Cannabis
The release of inmates was prompted by a new decree that took effect on June 9, legalizing industrial cannabis. The law removes marijuana with a THC concentration of no more than 0.2% from the list of narcotic plants. Products containing up to 0.2% THC are no longer considered illegal drugs. Citizens are now allowed to use cannabis for medical purposes, as well as to possess and cultivate marijuana in unlimited quantities.
Regulations for Cannabis Use and Cultivation
Smoking marijuana is now considered a public nuisance offense, meaning it is permitted as long as it does not disturb others. If someone complains about marijuana smoke and the offender is found guilty, they could face up to three months in jail. Police will no longer immediately detain people suspected of illegal marijuana possession; instead, confiscated cannabis will first be tested to determine its THC content.
Growers do not need a license to cultivate marijuana, but they are required to register on the Plook Ganja website or app and report the location and number of plants they intend to grow. To promote cannabis cultivation, the Ministry of Health has promised to distribute one million plants to anyone interested.