Chiang Rai drug bust: 456 kilogrammes crystal meth seized
Military and police forces intercepted a drug smuggling operation in Chiang Rai, seizing approximately 456 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine. The operation followed a local tip-off about a Mitsubishi pickup truck involved in a collision and subsequent escape.
Yesterday, January 15, soldiers from the Phaden Base, Task Force Chao Taak, and the Pha Mueang Force, in collaboration with Mae Fa Luang Police Station and related agencies, received reports from residents.
The report indicated that a white Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck with Bangkok plates had collided with a local vehicle in Ban Sam Yaek Eko, Moo 24, Mae Salong Nai subdistrict, Mae Fa Luang district, Chiang Rai province.
Responding to the tip, the military coordinated with the Phaden Base to investigate the incident.
The involved vehicle fled towards Mae Salong Nok subdistrict, with police and soldiers in pursuit. The truck was eventually found abandoned by the roadside in Ban Lao Sip, Moo 3, Mae Salong Nok subdistrict. The front right wheel of the vehicle was damaged, making it inoperable, but the driver was not located.
Upon inspecting the vehicle, police discovered 22 colourful woven bags in the back seat and pickup bed. The bags contained crystal methamphetamine, with 20 bags weighing 21 kilogrammes each, one bag weighing 20 kilogrammes, and another weighing 16 kilogrammes, totalling 456 kilogrammes, reported KhaoSod.
The drugs were confiscated as evidence. Efforts to locate the suspect who fled the scene are ongoing.
In related news, police in Nakhon Pathom arrested two suspects and seized over 70 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine hidden in a secret room beneath a staircase. The drugs were intended for distribution, with one suspect denying all charges.
On January 12, at 11pm, senior police officers, including Police Major General Chomchawin Purathananon and Police Colonel Phongsakorn Uppapong, along with other local officials, conducted a drug raid at a residence in Bang Khaem, Mueang district, Nakhon Pathom province. The operation led to the arrest of two individuals: 31 year old Chaiwat and 25 year old Sitthichai.
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