BANGKOK, Thailand – Thai Airways International PCL has confirmed it is coordinating with relevant authorities in Thailand and Australia after a Thai cabin crew member was detained in Melbourne in connection with an alleged drug smuggling case. According to reports from Australian authorities, a 26-year-old Thai woman working as an international flight attendant was stopped at Melbourne Airport on June 25, after being selected for baggage screening by the Australian Border Force (ABF). Authorities reportedly discovered more than 1 kilogram of a white powder substance concealed inside 12 cloth bags within her luggage. Preliminary tests indicated the substance was heroin, with an estimated street value of over AUD 500,000 (approximately THB 10 million), according to the Australian Federal Police (AFP).
The AFP stated that the suspect has been charged with serious border-controlled drug importation offences, with a court appearance scheduled for September 14. Bail was reportedly denied on June 26. Thai Airways said it maintains strict policies prohibiting all employees from involvement in narcotics or illegal substances and requires full compliance with both company regulations and destination country laws. The airline added that it is cooperating fully with authorities and ensuring the employee receives proper legal rights under the judicial process.
