BANGKOK, Thailand – Thai authorities have intensified operations against transnational drug networks, resulting in the arrest of a British man and the seizure of over 1.1 kilograms of cocaine valued at 3–3.5 million baht. The arrest took place at a luxury condominium in central Bangkok, where the suspect had been using the unit to store drugs imported through postal parcels.
Pol. Maj. Col. Suriya Singhakamon, Secretary of the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), said the operation underscores Thailand’s commitment to preventing the country from being used as a transit or storage hub for drugs targeting foreign tourists. “Through careful surveillance of suspicious parcels, we were able to apprehend the suspect with the drugs in his possession. This cocaine is a high-demand club drug popular among certain tourist circles, and we will continue investigations to dismantle the entire network,” he said.
The investigation began when postal staff refused a parcel labeled under a foreign name that did not match any registered resident at the condominium. As the postal officer attempted to retrieve the parcel, a 25-year-old British man arrived to claim it, prompting authorities to make the arrest.
During the operation, authorities also recovered a small quantity of marijuana from the suspect’s residence. He has been charged with importing Category 2 narcotics (cocaine) into Thailand without authorization, with intent to distribute and cause public dissemination.
Secretary Suriya issued a warning about the dangers of club drugs, noting that networks are attempting to supply illicit substances such as MDMA, “Happy Water,” ketamine, 55 drugs, and nitrous oxide to nightlife venues. Authorities have instructed all agencies to increase vigilance and enforcement to protect society and youth from these harmful drugs.
This arrest demonstrates the ONCB’s ongoing efforts to combat transnational drug trafficking and safeguard Thailand from becoming a hub for illegal narcotics distribution.
