PATTAYA, Thailand – Immigration police have raided a residence in Pattaya, arresting a Chinese national suspected of running an online operation selling laughing gas and illegal vape products to local youths, while also seizing a firearm, ammunition, and a large quantity of contraband.
According to Pol. Col. Parinya Klinkesorn, spokesperson for Immigration Bureau Division 3, investigators carried out the operation on March 11 after receiving intelligence that a Chinese suspect was illegally distributing nitrous oxide—commonly known as “laughing gas”—along with other prohibited substances via online platforms.
The crackdown follows a nationwide directive from Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanumart Boonyalak, ordering immigration units to intensify efforts against transnational crime and prevent foreign nationals from using Thailand as a base for illegal activities.
Investigators found that the suspect allegedly used social media platforms such as Facebook and Telegram to advertise and sell nitrous oxide and other substances to young customers in the Pattaya area. Officers arranged a controlled purchase, ordering one tank of laughing gas for 2,400 baht.
When a motorcycle arrived at the residence and the suspect stepped outside carrying a box containing the gas cylinder, officers moved in and made the arrest before conducting a search of the property.
Police seized numerous items during the raid, including a .38-caliber handgun (TAUROS brand), multiple types of ammunition, a Glock magazine, 30 vape cartridges containing etomidate, and 17 tanks of nitrous oxide.
During initial questioning, the suspect reportedly admitted ownership of the seized items.
Authorities have charged him with illegal sale of a modern pharmaceutical substance (nitrous oxide), illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, and possession and distribution of a Category 2 controlled substance (etomidate vape cartridges) without authorization.
The suspect and the seized evidence were handed over to investigators at Pattaya City Police Station for legal proceedings, while authorities continue expanding the investigation to identify possible accomplices both in Thailand and abroad.
