PHUKET, Thailand – Police in Phuket have arrested a Russian man after he was allegedly found carrying a large quantity of illegal drugs while travelling by public bus from Pattaya to the island. The arrest took place at a security checkpoint in Phuket on the inbound route, where officers stopped a Phuket–Pattaya passenger bus for routine inspection. Authorities said the suspect, identified as Mr. Gorskii, 29, a Russian national, appeared visibly nervous and behaved suspiciously when officers began checking passengers.
According to police, the man allegedly attempted to push a red-and-black shoulder bag away from his seat using his feet, prompting officers to conduct a search. He was unable to present a passport when requested, further raising suspicion. Inside the bag, officers reportedly discovered a substantial quantity of narcotics, including 564.74 grams of crystal methamphetamine (ice), 471.92 grams of mephedrone, 129.8 grams of heroin, 51 grams of ecstasy (MDMA), 54.6 grams of amphetamine, and 582 grams of ketamine. Police also seized two mobile phones, a MacBook, and 11,320 baht in cash.
The suspect was taken into custody at the scene and transferred to Thachatchai Police Station for further investigation and legal proceedings. Authorities said the arrest was part of routine operations at the Phuket checkpoint, which monitors incoming traffic for illegal drugs, weapons, and other prohibited items. Officers noted that the suspect had travelled on a long-distance bus route from Pattaya before being stopped upon entry into Phuket. He has been charged with possession of category 1 narcotics with intent to sell without permission, an offence that police say contributes to the spread of illegal drugs in the community. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether the suspect is linked to a larger trafficking network.
