Pol Lt Gen Surapong Thanomchit, Commander of Region 8 Police, announced the results of the coordinated operation at a press conference held alongside the Narcotics Suppression Bureau (NSB) this morning (Apr 11)
Pol Lt Gen Surapong said the crackdown was part of broader efforts to ensure public safety during the Thai New Year Songkran holidays.
Although based in Phuket, Region 8 Police oversees police operations in the seven Southern Thailand provinces of Ranong, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Sri Thammarat, Krabi, Phang Nga and Phuket.
The first arrest involved a 42-year-old Jordanian man stopped at a checkpoint on the Baan Ya-Cherng Talay Road in Thalang.
Officers found ketamine, cocaine and ecstasy hidden in his shoulder bag. A search of two properties linked to the suspect uncovered even more drugs and firearms.
In placing the Jordanian under arrest officers seized 3,74 grammes of ketamine, 1.138kg of cocaine and 28,217 ecstasy pills along with four rifles and 248 rounds of ammunition.
Police also arrested a French national, identified only as ‘Mr Danlel’, and a Thai woman, ‘Ms. Pantiwa’, 34, who were found producing and distributing drugs from a condominium in Kamala.
In placing the couple under arrest, officers found cocaine, ecstasy, drug-making equipment, and unapproved pharmaceutical products. Items seized included 15.16g of ketamine, two ecstasy pills, 13 pieces of drug production equipment and 22 bottles of drugs without FDA approval.
Police also raided an unlicensed medical clinic in Patong, Pol Lt Gen Surapong said.
Two employees were arrested for providing unauthorised medical services. Police said legal proceedings are underway against the clinic’s owner, ‘Ms Panthida’, for operating the facility illegally.
Pol Lt Gen Surapong emphasised that Region 8 Police is ramping up efforts during the Songkran holiday to ensure public safety.
He warned that foreign offenders could face visa revocation and deportation, and encouraged the public to report suspicious activity.
“We are committed to taking serious and continuous action to protect the public,” Pol Lt Gen Surapong said.
“Anyone with information can contact their local police station or call the 191 hotline. Reports will be kept strictly confidential,” he added.
Lt gen Surapong also assured the public that police are on duty 24/7 throughout the holiday period, aiming to make Songkran 2025 both joyful and safe.