2-1-2024 (BANGKOK) A confrontation between soldiers and smugglers occurred in Mae Ai district during the early hours of Tuesday, resulting in the seizure of 200,000 abandoned methamphetamine pills, as reported by officials.
Around 3:30 am, while conducting a patrol near a natural border crossing from Myanmar in Kaeng Tum village of Mae Ai district, the Pha Muang task force encountered armed individuals. A gunfire exchange took place as the smugglers attempted to escape. Following the clash, soldiers conducted a thorough search of the area and discovered two abandoned rucksacks containing 200,000 meth pills, along with a firearm, according to Lt Gen Narit Thavornwong, the chief of a drug suppression unit. Fortunately, there were no casualties reported on either side.
Additionally, Lt Gen Narit announced that soldiers had been dispatched to inspect suspicious parcels at logistics firms in three districts of Chiang Mai province—Chiang Dao, Chai Prakarn, and Fang—for potential drug-related contents. Random searches have been ordered at checkpoints, with a particular focus on box trucks transporting parcels and trucks carrying agricultural products.
To combat the smuggling of drugs during the New Year holiday period, patrols have been intensified along the northern border, stated Lt Gen Narit.
