Emeh Tobechukwu Kyran, 32, was stopped at a checkpoint on Thepkrasattri Rd northbound, literally across the road from Thalang Police Station, at 2:30am, Thalang Police Chief Col Teerawat Liamsuwan explained at a press conference today (May 9).
Noting that Emeh appeared to be acting nervously, especially after officers asked to see his passport, the officers searched his car, a Honda, and found cocaine under one of the seats, Col Teerawat said.
A search of Emeh found more cocaine in a packet tucked into his trousers’ waistband.
“Emeh was unable to produce his passport and pretended to not understand English,” Col Teerawat said.
Regardless, the officers marched Emeh across the road and into the police station for questioning, after which Emeh led police officers to the room where he was staying in Soi Bangriang. Down the road in Tambon Thepkrasattri, and showed them where he kept more cocaine and digital scales in a rice container.
In total the officers seized 44.7 grams of cocaine contained in 14 separate packets.
Police said the cocaine seized had estimated value of B200,000.
Also seized in making the arrest was B16,200 in cash and one US$1 banknote, along with the digital weighing device, two mobile phones and Emeh’s Honda car.
Col Teerawat Liamsuwan said that Emeh had a “drug connection for tourists”.
“He used his Thai girlfriend to deliver the drugs, keeping him away from the physical involvement in the act,” he explained.
However, Emeh and his girlfriend split up about two months ago, he added.
Col Teerawat made no mention of arresting Emeh’s former girlfriend
Emeh was charged with possession of a Category 2 drug (cocaine) with intent to sell and with illegally staying in the country, Col Teerwat confirmed.
Police were continuing their investigation into Emeh’s drug activities, he added.