4-5-2024 (PATTANI) In a concerted effort, police intercepted a substantial drug shipment bound for Malaysia, resulting in the arrest of four drug smugglers on Saturday.
The joint operation, which included Pattani authorities, the Narcotics Control Board, and the military, was spearheaded by Pol Maj Gen Nitinai Langyanai, commander of Provincial Police Region 9.
The interception took place as the four men were traveling in three cars, transporting 350 bags containing over 1.4 million methamphetamine pills. The contraband, weighing approximately 350 kilograms, holds an estimated street value of around 80 million baht. Alongside the drugs, authorities seized six mobile phones.
The breakthrough stemmed from intelligence gathered by Pattani police, indicating a significant drug consignment traversing the southern border provinces en route to Malaysia.
Surveillance was promptly deployed to monitor the movements of the three vehicles suspected of carrying the illicit cargo. Law enforcement officers spotted the vehicles at a petrol station in Songkhla, allowing for their interception as they entered Pattani.
The apprehended individuals were identified as Ekatat (41), Arthit (43), Ananchawat (35), and Somchai (27). Police confirmed that all suspects admitted to their involvement in the transportation of illicit drugs with the intent to distribute.
Further revelations emerged from the suspects, who disclosed collaboration with an individual known only as Toh, residing in the central region. Authorities are currently gathering additional evidence to secure a warrant for Toh’s apprehension.
