Major drug bust in Songkhla uncovers drugs worth 117 million baht
A significant drug bust in Songkhla province has led to the seizure of approximately 200 kilogrammes of heroin and 2.7 million methamphetamine pills, with an estimated total value exceeding 117 million baht.
Two people suspected of drug trafficking were apprehended in what is being described as the province’s largest drug seizure to date.
A coordinated effort by police, military personnel, and local officials resulted in the arrest of 34 year old Sayompu Tiboon from Hat Yai and 24 year old Wiroj Thongdee from Chiang Rai on March 13. The announcement was made during a media briefing today, March 16.
According to Police Lieutenant General Nitinai Langyanai, commissioner of the Border Patrol Police Bureau, the operation in Thung Tamsao, Hat Yai district, led to the confiscation of 596 bars of heroin, weighing 208.6 kilogrammes, valued at approximately 89.4 million baht (US$2.6 million), alongside 2.7 million speed pills, worth 28 million baht (US$834,575).
Additional items seized included four mobile phones, a Toyota Altis with Songkhla licence plates, and a motorcycle.
Sayompu was detained at 9pm on March 13 at a temporary shelter located within a rubber plantation in Tha Morchai village, Moo 8, Hat Yai district. The shelter, used for drug storage before distribution, contained large quantities of heroin and methamphetamine pills concealed in sacks of animal feed.
During the investigation, Sayompu alleged that the drugs belonged to a person known only by the aliases Boss and Tom. While being questioned, Sayompu received a call through the LINE chat application from Wiroj, inquiring about the readiness of three sacks of drugs for delivery. Wiroj subsequently arrived at the location and was arrested as he attempted to load the drugs into his vehicle.
Sayompu admitted to being employed by Boss and receiving payments ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 baht (US$60 to 90) for storing drugs at his shelter. Wiroj disclosed that he was compensated 40,000 baht (US$1,192) for each delivery to a dealer in Pattani. Both suspects are currently in police custody, facing legal proceedings.
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