Overstayed and overplayed: German man nabbed in Thai drug bust
A German man is behind bars in Maha Sarakham following a dramatic arrest for drug possession and a whopping 377-day visa overstay.
Immigration police swooped yesterday, March 11, after a local resort owner reported odd behaviour from a foreign guest in Room 2.
The suspect, 53 year old Thomas, looked startled and suspiciously fiddled with the door lock when officers arrived. This prompted a thorough search, leading to the discovery of methamphetamine cleverly hidden in plastic wrap behind the lock.
Thomas had entered Thailand via Suvarnabhumi International Airport on December 29, 2023, with a tourist visa initially valid until January 27, 2024. Although he secured an extension, his visa ultimately expired on February 26, 2024, reported SiamRath.
During the document check, Thomas appeared increasingly agitated, claiming the urgent need for a shower. His actions only heightened suspicions, and as he tried to make an exit, a more extensive search was conducted. This uncovered methamphetamine wrapped in clear plastic and black tape, seized by the officers.
Under questioning, Thomas admitted to using drugs daily but insisted they belonged to a friend. Charged with illegal possession and use of methamphetamine, as well as overstaying his visa, Thomas now finds himself ensnared in the legal system.
As proceedings continue, local officials emphasise their crackdown on illegal activities among foreigners. His case, underscores the serious consequences of drug offences and visa violations in Thailand.
Thomas remains in custody, awaiting further legal action as the investigation unfolds.
In similar news, Phuket police arrested three foreigners this week in a clampdown on illegal immigrants and employment law violators.
Phuket police officers detained two foreign nationals for visa overstays on Monday, March 10. The violators, an Indian man called Jay, was in Thailand for 668 days while a man from Pakistan, Shah, overstayed by 92 days, Phuket Immigration revealed.
A third man, a Chinese national, Liquan, was arrested at a Chinese restaurant in Soi Naka. Police found the 33 year old cooking in the joint’s kitchen without a work permit.
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