Police today held the press conference to announcing the arrest of Cherng Talay Tambon Council member Nakin Wisuttharom, 36, along with his associates Wichai Kongthub, 34, Pornsak Wanthong, 39, and Udom Rattanamanee, 35.
The arrests began with Mr Udom, who was caught on June 2 in possession of 32.60 grams of heroin and a 9mm pistol. A search of his home turned up more heroin and some ya ice (crystal methamphetamine). Mr Udom, police said, had been selling drugs in the Thalang area for many years.
During questioning he revealed details about his supplier. The following morning police raided a hut on Kamala hill belonging to Mr Nakin. He was arrested along with Mr Wichai and Mr Pornsak, and 310 grams of heroin, the marijuana and a rifle were seized.
The gang confessed that they had bought the drugs in the north of Thailand to sell to foreign tourists in Phuket.
Photo by Boonrat Apiwantanakorn