PHUKET: Authorities staged a predawn raid on Phuket Prison today for drugs, mobile telephones and weapons but emerged empty-handed. A record number of 2831 inmates now crowd the jail built for 750.

Despite its cramped conditions, Phuket Prison has a reputation for being a ''white'' facility. Random drugs tests taken on 300 prisoners this morning all proved negative.

The raid was part of a nationwide check that comes every six months at facilities throughout Thailand. Taking part today with jail staff were Public Health officials, Phuket City police and volunteers.

The total of 2831 prisoners includes 447 women. International Red Cross is believed to be concerned at a number of issues caused by the excessive crowding.

Prisoners in dormitories for as many as 300 no longer have enough space on the floor to lie on their backs and taller prisoners cannot stretch full length because others are in the way.