Thai Customs seize drugs headed for Australia and Germany

Thai Customs officials intercepted shipments containing illegal drugs concealed within everyday items destined for Australia and Germany, with a combined estimated value of over 14.74 million baht.

Customs Advisor Phanthong Loikulnunt, acting as spokesperson for the Customs Department, announced the seizure. The first incident occurred when officials at Suvarnabhumi International Airport’s customs office scrutinised an express cargo shipment marked for Australia.

This shipment, with the label ENCLOSURE and weighing 21 kilogrammes, raised suspicions. Upon examination, the package was found to contain a digital ultrasonic cleaner. X-ray images and physical inspection revealed hidden contents, leading to a detailed search by the Investigation and Suppression Bureau and the AITF operation team.

Inside the ultrasonic cleaner, officials discovered six foil-wrapped packets disguised as green tea bags. Upon further inspection, they found these packets contained crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as Ice, with a total weight, including packaging, of approximately 5.6 kilogrammes.

The street value of this seizure is estimated at 13.44 million baht. Officers have seized the items and are continuing investigations to identify and prosecute those involved.

“The Customs Department is committed to preventing and suppressing drug trafficking through all available channels. This includes strict surveillance and enforcement measures at import, export, and transit points.”

In a separate incident on August 23, officials at the Bangkok Customs Office analysed a high-risk international postal package at the Bangkok Express Mail Centre. The suspicious parcel, originating from Germany, underwent an X-ray scan which revealed anomalies. Collaboration with the Investigation and Suppression Bureau, AITF, and Thailand Post led to a thorough inspection.

Upon opening the package, officers discovered three containers labelled as dietary supplements. Inside these containers, they found ketamine, with a total weight, including packaging, of approximately 1.307 kilogrammes. The estimated value of this seizure is 1.3 million baht. The parcel has been confiscated and handed over to investigators for legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod.

Phanthong remarked on the ongoing efforts by the Customs Department, highlighting the significant achievements in drug interdiction.

“From October 1, 2022, to August 27 last year, the Customs Department has recorded 130 drug-related cases with a total value of 1,018.47 million baht.”