Major drug dealer captured after dramatic canal chase in Tha Sala
Police in Tha Sala district yesterday arrested a major drug dealer after an intense pursuit. The suspect, identified as a key figure in the local drug trade, attempted to evade capture by attacking officers and fleeing into a canal.
Police Colonel Thawatchai Sangkhamitkon of Tha Sala Police Station yesterday, April 8, had received reports of drug trafficking in the area. He tasked Police Lieutenant Colonel Somchai Muaydee and Police Lieutenant Colonel Theerapol Phumchai with investigating a house near a canal in Mueang Tha Sala. Upon inspection, officers discovered 17 methamphetamine pills and a small digital scale, which were seized as evidence.
As officers moved to detain the drug owner, he resisted arrest and wielded a knife, attempting to stab the officers. Although the officers narrowly avoided injury, one sustained a head injury after hitting his head on a hard object. The suspect managed to break free and jumped into the canal to escape.
In response, Pol. Lt. Col. Theerapol, who was present at the scene, joined the pursuit by jumping into the water. Additional police and rescue personnel entered the canal to assist. After a challenging pursuit, the suspect was captured and taken to the police station for questioning.
Pol. Lt. Col. Theerapol sustained a foot injury from tiles in the canal and later received treatment at Tha Sala Hospital. The suspect, identified as Watcharapong, had been under surveillance by police due to his significant role in drug trafficking.
Following the arrest, he was charged with the possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell and was handed over to Tha Sala Police Station for further legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod.
In similar news, the Metropolitan Police arrested two men involved in a drug trafficking operation after they parked a vehicle containing illegal drugs and later returned to distribute them to clients.
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