Myriad of drug raids in Phuket yields over 4,000 meth pills

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul arrived in Phuket yesterday to news that the local police declared a series of detentions in recent anti-drug operations, with raids leading to the capture of over 4,000 methamphetamine pills, also known as Yaba.

One such operation by the Phuket City Police dismantled a significant drug network leading to the arrest of nine individuals. Among these, 24 year old Kanokporn Khankaew from Nakhon Sawan province, 20 year old Atchara Nutapong from Wichit, and a 17 year old female from Nong Khai were seized at a house in Soi Sukato 2, Phuket Garden Ville housing estate, near Phuket Rajabhat University.

They were found in possession of 202 meth pills and 0.5 grammes of crystal meth, colloquially known as ya ice.

Along with the drugs, authorities confiscated three mobile phones, drug paraphernalia, and digital scales. The trio was subsequently charged with illegal possession of a Category 1 narcotic with intent to sell and with illegal online gambling.

In the vicinity, 29 year old Wutthichai Naksri, and 37 year old Suwanna Koisin were arrested after they were discovered with 102 meth pills. The duo was charged with illegally distributing a Category 1 narcotic, and Wutthichai was further charged with operating a vehicle under the influence.

Another group comprising 24 year old Udomsak Chusit, 22 year old Warawut Phiman, and 20 year old Tharathep Saengnak was arrested at a rented room in Soi Bunlert, Chalong. They were found with 391 meth pills and 10.14 grammes of ya ice and were charged with illegal possession and consumption of Category 1 narcotics.

Illegal firearms

In a separate incident, 34 year old Waewta Khumkhong was arrested at a rented room in Ratsada for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

Moreover, Thalang Police reported the arrest of eight individuals and the seizure of over 4,000 meth pills from Tuesday, May 7 to Thursday, May 9. Those apprehended included Thanong Raksakham, Supachai Poonsong, Salisa Poonsong, Kriangkrai Sala-ngam, Yongyut Chitsawat, Apiwut Saleechan, Narongsak Anan-aye, and Sunantha Anan.

All suspects were taken into custody and charged accordingly for “engaging in the act for trade and causing the spread of drugs among the people which has an impact on the security of the state and the safety of the general public,” as reported by the police.

These arrests are indicative of Phuket’s ongoing war against drugs, with Deputy PM Anutin spearheading the efforts to clamp down on illegal activities within the region, instead promoting the health and safety of tourists and locals alike.