Thai police swoop on drug network in Bangkok
Thai police announced a significant drug crackdown in Bangkok, seizing more than 7.8 million methamphetamine pills, 212 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine (Ice), and 340 grammes of ketamine. The busts, linked to the Ko Nimmitmai drug network, targeted operations supplying narcotics across Bangkok and surrounding areas.
The arrests and seizures were detailed in a press conference held at the 191 Patrol and Special Operations Division headquarters. Senior police officials, including Assistant National Police Chief Police Lieutenant General Samran Nuanma and acting Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau Police Lieutenant General. Siam Boonsom highlighted two major cases as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle organized drug networks.
Acting on a tip-off, the 191 Patrol Unit tracked a drug delivery operation involving a white Isuzu D-Max truck. The vehicle, suspected of being used to transport drugs, was intercepted near an auto garage in Bang Bua Thong district, Nonthaburi. Surveillance revealed the truck and a grey Honda Jazz acting as a convoy vehicle.
On December 1, police stopped the vehicles and arrested three suspects: a 38 year old truck driver, Anukul “Tum” Tubthaem, a 33 year old convoy driver, Thatchai “Bee” Chueanphueng, a 44 year old passenger, Prajoub “Juab” Tumtama.
A search of the truck uncovered 7.8 million methamphetamine pills, hidden in a concealed compartment. Three vehicles, including the truck and convoy car, were seized as evidence.
The suspects face charges of possessing narcotics with intent to distribute, a crime categorized as harmful to public safety and state security. Background checks revealed prior drug-related convictions for two of the suspects.
Drug bust
In another operation, Metropolitan Police investigators targeted a suspected drug storage house in the Nimmitmai area. Following surveillance, police arrested 26 year old Natthawut “Film” Inkhaw, as he left the premises. A search of his bag revealed 10 grammes of ketamine.
Further investigation led police to search the house, where they discovered additional ketamine and 212 kilogrammes of Ice packed in tea bags and stored on the ground floor.
Natthawut confessed to being part of the Ko Nimmitmai network, stating he was responsible for storing and distributing drugs under the orders of a higher-ranking member. The drugs were intended for customers in Bangkok and surrounding provinces.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Samran emphasized that investigations are ongoing, with police planning additional raids on suspected storage facilities linked to these networks. He urged citizens to report suspicious activity, highlighting the importance of public cooperation in tackling the drug crisis, reported KhaoSod.
Anyone with information can contact local police or call the 24-hour hotline to assist in identifying and apprehending those involved in narcotics trafficking.
