PATTAYA, Thailand – Tourist police have arrested a Russian man accused of distributing a dangerous new synthetic party drug while posing as a nightclub DJ on Koh Samui, Surat Thani, prompting authorities to increase surveillance in major tourist destinations across the country.
The suspect, identified as Anton Petukhov, 41, a Russian national, was arrested by officers from the Tourist Police Bureau near Hua Thian Pier in Ban Tai. Police said he appeared intoxicated after allegedly using cocaine shortly before his arrest.
A subsequent search of his residence uncovered multiple narcotics, including 115 grams of cocaine, 11 grams of ketamine, and ecstasy in both crystal form and tablet form.
During questioning, Petukhov reportedly admitted that he worked as a DJ at entertainment venues as a front while ordering drugs through the messaging application Telegram. He allegedly purchased shipments of around 500 grams at a time, which were then divided and sold to customers.
Authorities say the suspect used an unusual distribution method involving AI-powered automated replies on Telegram to manage transactions, payments, and delivery instructions. Drugs were reportedly hidden underground at various locations for customers to retrieve.
According to Lt. Col. Winij Boonchit of the Tourist Police Division 3, investigators also discovered a new type of synthetic drug known as “2CB,” referred to by users as the “wolf head” or “skull” pill due to its distinctive shape.
The brightly colored tablets are designed to resemble toys and are believed to target young partygoers and nightlife tourists. Police warn that the drug belongs to the poly-drug category, meaning it contains a mixture of substances that can produce unpredictable and potentially fatal effects.
“Because it combines multiple narcotic compounds, the drug can cause severe reactions including respiratory failure or sudden death,” Lt. Col. Winij said.
Petukhov has been charged with possession and distribution of Category 1 narcotics, distribution of Category 2 narcotics, and distribution of psychotropic substances, among other offenses. He has been handed over to investigators at the local police station for further legal proceedings.
Authorities say the case is also being expanded to investigate a possible AI-assisted international drug distribution network linked to the suspect.
Police say the arrest has heightened concerns about the spread of new synthetic drugs in Thailand’s nightlife scene, particularly in major tourist hubs such as Pattaya, Phuket, and Koh Samui.
In recent months, police in Pattaya have reported several incidents involving foreign nationals linked to drug possession and distribution in entertainment districts, prompting authorities to intensify patrols and undercover operations in nightlife areas frequented by tourists.
Officials say the latest arrest serves as a warning that tourist cities remain a key focus for drug enforcement, as authorities seek to prevent dangerous new substances from spreading within Thailand’s nightlife and party scenes.
