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Police Chief Dismisses Sovereignty Concerns After 'Liu Zhongyi' Crosses Thai-Myanmar Border Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's National Police Chief, General Kittirat Phanphet, has dismissed concerns about a breach of sovereignty following a visit by Liu Zhongyi, Assistant Minister of China's Ministry of Public Security. Liu visited Thailand's Mae Sot, Tak province, to negotiate the return of Chinese nationals involved in call centre scams back to China. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352445-police-chief-dismisses-sovereignty-concerns-after-liu-zhongyi-crosses-thai-myanmar-border/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's National Police Chief, General Kittirat Phanphet, has dismissed concerns about a breach of sovereignty following a visit by Liu Zhongyi, Assistant Minister of China's Ministry of Public Security. Liu visited Thailand's Mae Sot, Tak province, to negotiate the return of Chinese nationals involved in call centre scams back to China. General Kittirat assured that the Thai government is prioritising action against the scam problem at its borders and collaborates closely with international security forces, including China. He emphasised that these interactions are coordinated and that there is no interference in Thailand's sovereignty. The police chief highlighted ongoing efforts by Thai authorities to tackle criminal activities and investigate any local involvement. He stressed that transparency and diligence are central to these operations, and anyone found complicit will face investigation. Operations in Mae Sot have already led to the detention of 260 individuals, currently under assessment to determine culpability or victim status. General Kittirat noted past visits and interactions with Liu Zhongyi, who appreciated the transparent efforts of Thai police. In light of the collaboration, actions such as cutting power and internet services have begun to yield results against these operations. The police chief is closely monitoring any international involvement in criminal activities, with specific measures in place to prevent the use of Thailand as a base for such operations. These strategic measures aim to safeguard civilians and uphold the law effectively, reported Thai Rath. -- 2025-02-21

2.5 Tonnes of Crystal Meth Seized in Major Thai Drug Bust Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV In a landmark operation, Thai authorities have uncovered and seized 2.464 tonnes of crystal methamphetamine, also known as "Ice," in Ayutthaya, marking the largest drug bust in recent years. The operation led to the dismantling of the notorious "Tata Tachileik" drug network. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352443-25-tonnes-of-crystal-meth-seized-in-major-thai-drug-bust/

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV THAILAND - In a landmark operation, Thai authorities have uncovered and seized 2.464 tonnes of crystal methamphetamine, also known as "Ice," in Ayutthaya, marking the largest drug bust in recent years. The operation led to the dismantling of the notorious "Tata Tachileik" drug network. Justice Minister Thawee Sodsong, alongside Deputy National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Prachuap Wongsuk and Assistant National Police Chief Pol. Lt. Gen. Sarayut Songwanphokhai, announced the success of the raid. Three suspects affiliated with the Tata Tachileik network were apprehended. They were allegedly planning to distribute the substantial drug haul nationwide by concealing it in various urban areas. The arrest also saw the confiscation of three vehicles used to transport the drugs, as well as six mobile phones. The interception took place near a PTT gas station in front of the Maharat police station in Ayutthaya. Acting on intelligence, the police stopped a convoy consisting of two pickup trucks with closed containers and a sedan. Upon inspection, officers discovered one tonne of Ice in one pickup and 1.464 tonnes in the other. The three individuals arrested were identified as Mr. La Ingsamut, aged 47; Mr. Wisanu Kaewpeng, known as Num, aged 26; and Mr. Suwit Khanngern, also known as Tom, aged 32. The suspects face charges of distributing Category 1 narcotics, a serious offence impacting national security and public safety. They have been handed over to the Narcotics Suppression Bureau for further legal proceedings. Minister Thawee hailed the operation as a significant achievement in the fight against illicit drug trade, emphasizing the dangers posed by such large quantities if they were to reach international markets where their value could skyrocket. Authorities are now expanding their investigation to pursue additional members of the Tata Tachileik network, underscoring their commitment to dismantling major drug trafficking operations, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-02-21

Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post Easing Thailand's existing restrictions on afternoon alcohol sales could inject an additional 50-100 billion baht into the economy, predominantly through increased spending by foreign tourists, experts in the industry suggest. Recent findings hint that so-called "high-quality" tourists are prepared to pay an extra $250 (approximately 8,400 baht) daily for premium food and beverage experiences. Anchalee Poomsirkaew, director of the Asia-Pacific International Spirits and Wines Association, believes that relaxing four specific alcohol sale restrictions could maximise revenue impacts, potentially unlocking the full 100 billion baht. The current restrictions prohibit alcohol sales between 2 and 5pm, during key Buddhist holy days, through e-commerce platforms, and outside designated zones. These limitations have been flagged for review under the guidance of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, with the Ministry of Public Health examining possible reforms. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Rawat Khongchat from the Night Restaurant Business Trade Association estimates that lifting the afternoon sales ban alone could boost the economy by at least 10 billion baht. This measure, he asserts, often surprises tourists who find their holiday plans disrupted due to unfamiliar sales windows. Additionally, the nightlife sector urges the government to consider expanded zoning, allowing venues to serve patrons beyond midnight to boost tourist spending. Major tourist hubs like Bangkok, which already boasts zones such as RCA, Patpong, and Ratchadaphisek, could benefit from further adjustments to operating hours. In response to concerns about the effects of abolishing sales bans on significant Buddhist holy days, Rawat suggests a phased approach. Initially, officials might consider allowing sales in the afternoon as a gradual introduction of policy change. James Lambert, director at Oxford Economics, reinforced the economic potential for Thailand, based on surveys indicating that 71% of 1,800 respondents from tourism powerhouses including China, South Korea, Australia, the US, and the UK view F&B offerings as crucial. For higher-income visitors, 75% identify dining quality as a decisive travel factor, and 78% rank value for money as vital. The president of the Thai Hotels Association, Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, concurs, noting current alcohol policies serve as deterrents for foreign tourists, affecting not only daily consumption but also dining experiences such as dinner cruises on Buddhist holy days. As discussions forge ahead, these proposed adjustments may strike a balance, embracing both economic expansion and cultural sensitivities, to enhance Thailand's appeal on the global stage, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-21

Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post The Council of State, Thailand's primary legal advisory body, has dismissed a proposal from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) aimed at renegotiating contracts with renewable power firms to reduce electricity bills. The proposal sought to decrease electricity costs by 0.17 baht per kilowatt-hour (kWh) from the current 4.15 baht per unit. Under pressure from the Pheu Thai-led government, efforts have been underway to lower power prices below 4 baht per unit to alleviate financial strain on consumers and businesses. Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga convened with ERC and Council of State representatives to discuss the proposal. Following their meeting, Mr Pirapan announced that regulatory limitations prevent the proposal from advancing, as changes would violate the conditions of existing contracts. The ERC initially suggested cutting government expenditures on renewable energy investments, focusing specifically on costs associated with power purchase agreements (PPAs) arranged with renewable power operators. These agreements, typically renewable every five years, could otherwise result in ongoing financial obligations for the government, perpetuating expenses for businesses and households. Presently, renewable power operators benefit from incentives such as adder and feed-in tariffs valid for eight years. After these tariffs expire, they continue to receive a bonus tariff, making electricity from renewable sources under PPAs more costly than that generated by coal-fired plants. Worawit Srianunraksa, an ERC member, expressed a desire for the National Energy Policy Council, led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, to re-evaluate PPA electricity prices based on calculations from the Energy Policy and Planning Office. However, Minister Pirapan is determined to pursue an alternative approach to cut bills by nearly 0.40 baht per unit. His strategy involves optimising the use of Pool Gas to reduce power generation costs. Pool Gas represents the weighted average wellhead price of gas sourced from the Gulf of Thailand, the Malaysia-Thailand Joint Development Area, Myanmar, and imported liquefied natural gas. Mr Pirapan believes that by enhancing the management of Pool Gas for power production and industrial purposes, it will become possible to lower the national power tariff, providing some relief to consumers and supporting economic stability, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-21

Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Thaksin Shinawatra, once Thailand's most controversial leader, is navigating fresh waters after returning from a 17-year self-imposed exile. Living in a lavish Bangkok residence, Thaksin has managed to find his footing despite past legal challenges, notably receiving a royal pardon that reduced his sentence from eight years to just one. At 75, Thaksin holds no official political titles. Yet, his influence in Thai politics remains undeniable, particularly within the Pheu Thai Party, where his daughter, Paetongtarn, has risen as Thailand's youngest Prime Minister at 38. Observers speculate Thaksin still exerts significant sway over government decisions. Beyond borders, Thaksin’s influence extends to regional affairs in Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos. He critiques the illegal operations along the Thai-Myanmar border, implicating them in funding Myanmar's ongoing civil conflicts. Recent moves by his daughter, Paetongtarn—such as cutting utility services to scam-affected areas—illustrate a strategic approach to these issues, aimed at disrupting criminal activities linked to global online frauds. Thaksin’s involvement in regional diplomacy is noteworthy. He has engaged with leaders of Myanmar resistance groups, fostering dialogues aimed at peace. His efforts align with ASEAN initiatives led by Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, whom Thaksin praises for his incisive leadership. Amid geopolitical tensions between the US and China, Thaksin advocates for ASEAN’s neutrality. Emphasizing ASEAN's strategic demographic and economic potential, he underscores the need for balanced relations, urging greater US engagement without alienating China. On a forward-looking note, Thaksin is considering recommendations to ASEAN for embracing cryptocurrency. With global leaders like Donald Trump showing interest in digital currencies, Thaksin believes ASEAN should explore this domain to stay globally competitive. As Thaksin Shinawatra redefines his role, his blend of political acumen and regional diplomacy continues to shape the landscape in Southeast Asia. His efforts reflect a commitment to fostering stability and growth, underscoring his enduring influence both at home and across the region, reported The Nation. -- 2025-02-21

From Exile to Power: Thaksin Reshapes Thai Politics Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Thaksin Shinawatra, once Thailand's most controversial leader, is navigating fresh waters after returning from a 17-year self-imposed exile. Living in a lavish Bangkok residence, Thaksin has managed to find his footing despite past legal challenges, notably receiving a royal pardon that reduced his sentence from eight years to just one. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352433-from-exile-to-power-thaksin-reshapes-thai-politics/

Council of State Rejects ERC Plan to Lower Electricity Bills Pictur courtesy: Bangkok Post The Council of State, Thailand's primary legal advisory body, has dismissed a proposal from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) aimed at renegotiating contracts with renewable power firms to reduce electricity bills. The proposal sought to decrease electricity costs by 0.17 baht per kilowatt-hour (kWh) from the current 4.15 baht per unit. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352425-council-of-state-rejects-erc-plan-to-lower-electricity-bills/

Chinese-Thai Pair Arrested for Alleged ฿91m Romance Scam Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post A Chinese national and her Thai partner have been apprehended in a Bang Phli district housing estate over allegations of orchestrating a complex romance-investment scam that reportedly defrauded victims of 91 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352423-chinese-thai-pair-arrested-for-alleged-฿91m-romance-scam/

Lifting Alcohol Restrictions Could Boost Thai Economy by Billions Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post Easing Thailand's existing restrictions on afternoon alcohol sales could inject an additional 50-100 billion baht into the economy, predominantly through increased spending by foreign tourists, experts in the industry suggest. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352421-lifting-alcohol-restrictions-could-boost-thai-economy-by-billions/

Israeli Community in Pai Faces Immigration Scrutiny Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post The Immigration Bureau of Thailand has turned its attention to the activities of Israelis residing in Pai, a picturesque tourist hub in northern Thailand. Prompted by a series of local complaints, authorities aim to verify the visa and work permit status of Israeli nationals in Mae Hong Son province, following concerns over possible legal violations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352417-israeli-community-in-pai-faces-immigration-scrutiny/

Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post The Immigration Bureau of Thailand has turned its attention to the activities of Israelis residing in Pai, a picturesque tourist hub in northern Thailand. Prompted by a series of local complaints, authorities aim to verify the visa and work permit status of Israeli nationals in Mae Hong Son province, following concerns over possible legal violations. Pol Col Thanathorn Khamthiang, Deputy Commander of Immigration Division 3, confirmed that immigration officers have been directed to collaborate with local police to investigate these issues. This move seeks to ascertain whether any Israelis have overstayed their visas, undertaken unpermitted work, or breached other legal frameworks. Pol Col Thanathorn emphasized the seriousness of the potential repercussions for those found infringing Thai law, particularly underlining that tourist visa holders are strictly prohibited from working. In recent inquiries, no evidence of Israelis overstaying their visas surfaced. Typically, they hold 60-day visas with an option for a 30-day extension, allowing them a maximum stay of 90 days—adequate for most tourists, stated Pol Col Thanathorn. There has been notable online chatter regarding the influx of Israelis in Pai. A circulating claim suggested that 30,000 Israelis entered Mae Hong Son last year. However, Pol Col Thanathorn clarified these figures, citing recent surveys indicating 1,200 to 1,500 Israeli visitors arrive per month, peaking at no more than 3,000 during the cooler months. Recently, immigration authorities conducted an inspection at a community centre frequently used for Jewish gatherings. During this event, approximately 200 to 300 Israelis were present for prayers and meals. The inspection concluded with no legal violations detected. Despite this, tensions in Pai have been heightened by several incidents involving Israeli nationals. Most notably, a group of four Israelis recently sparked public ire after vandalising the emergency room at Pai Hospital. This incident occurred when they forced entry to visit a fellow Israeli injured in a motorcycle accident. Consequently, the culprits were fined ฿3,000 (about THB 3,000) each, had their tourist visas voided, and were deported back to Israel. Furthermore, they received lifetime bans from re-entering Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-21

Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post A Chinese national and her Thai partner have been apprehended in a Bang Phli district housing estate over allegations of orchestrating a complex romance-investment scam that reportedly defrauded victims of 91 million baht. Authorities have identified the suspects as Zhou Zhou, aged 29, and 31-year-old Alisa Lamkrathok from Nakhon Ratchasima. Their arrest occurred at the Indy 4 estate in tambon Bang Kaew on Wednesday, confirmed Pol Maj Gen Theeradet Thumsuthee, Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau. During the search, police uncovered 102 bank passbooks, 70 debit cards, approximately 1,000 SIM cards, four mobile phones, a laptop, and a Toyota Yaris. These items are believed to be connected to a series of romance scams that lured victims into fraudulent investment schemes. One such scheme tricked a victim into investing in what was presented as a TikTok shop based in Singapore. Initial returns were provided, bolstering trust before subsequent investments vanished. The suspects reportedly converted the illicit gains into bitcoin, utilising a prominent Thai digital currency exchange. Zhou, unable to communicate in Thai, recruited her partner, Alisa, to handle local operations. Zhou allegedly persuaded Alisa to resign from her teaching career to assist in recruiting individuals to open mule bank accounts and digital wallets. Pol Maj Gen Theeradet highlighted that the 102 bank passbooks seized were linked to 132 online fraud complaints, cumulatively claiming losses of 91.2 million baht. Separate operations saw police detain three additional Thai individuals. Two of these were attempting to facilitate the opening of a bank account at a hotel tied to the activities of Zhou's network, further implicating them in the suspected scheme. The authorities' continued efforts underline a commitment to cracking down on such sophisticated scams, which exploit digital platforms to disguise illegal activities. Victims, often targeted through romance scams, are persuaded to invest in non-existent ventures, highlighting the importance of vigilance and skepticism in online financial dealings, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-21

Cabinet Set to Reject Casino Entry Rule for Thai Nationals Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post Thai Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has indicated that a contentious proposal regulating casino entry for Thai citizens is unlikely to win cabinet approval. The policy, suggested by the Council of State (CoS), requires Thais to maintain a minimum of 50 million baht (approximately THB 50 million) in fixed deposits for at least six months to gain entry to casino entertainment complexes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352419-cabinet-set-to-reject-casino-entry-rule-for-thai-nationals/

Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post Thai Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has indicated that a contentious proposal regulating casino entry for Thai citizens is unlikely to win cabinet approval. The policy, suggested by the Council of State (CoS), requires Thais to maintain a minimum of 50 million baht (approximately US$ 1.5 million) in fixed deposits for at least six months to gain entry to casino entertainment complexes. Anutin, who also holds the position of Deputy Prime Minister and leads the Bhumjaithai Party, expressed skepticism over the proposal's feasibility. He reassured that as a coalition partner, Bhumjaithai remains committed to supporting government policies, provided they don't negatively impact society. This proposal, outlined by Pakorn Nilprapunt, the CoS Secretary-General, aims to limit gambling access to individuals with considerable financial resources. Pakorn noted that the draft is under its second review, with the public invited to provide feedback until March 1 through the CoS website. This public response will shape subsequent deliberations. The CoS plans to present the refined draft to the cabinet 50 days post the feedback deadline. Pakorn framed the Entertainment Complex Bill primarily as a tool to boost foreign tourism, incorporating stringent measures to deter most Thais from patronizing local casinos, addressing prevalent gambling concerns. Meanwhile, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat clarified that the bill's broader agenda includes curbing illegal gambling, attracting foreign investment, and stimulating economic growth. He voiced concerns that the financial stipulations would exclude a majority of Thais from legal casinos, risking a continued reliance on unlawful gambling dens or establishments in neighbouring countries. The entry requirements, poised to restrict accessibility for locals and promote economic boosts through controlled tourism, are scheduled for reassessment at an upcoming cabinet meeting. The decision will play a pivotal role in the future landscape of Thailand’s entertainment and gambling sectors, balancing economic interests with social considerations, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-21

Thailand's Tourism Boom: 5.5 Million Visitors and $8B Revenue Picture courtesy of Erik Karits, Unsplash Thailand is enjoying a tourism resurgence with over 5.5 million international visitors arriving between January 1 and February 16, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports led by Sorawong Thienthong. This boom has generated more than 270 billion baht (about $8 billion), boosting the nation's economic recovery. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352392-thailands-tourism-boom-55-million-visitors-and-8b-revenue/

Scam Leads Strangers to Thai Woman's Home for Fake Sex Services - video Photo via KhaoSod A 53-year-old Thai woman named Thanida faced months of harassment after a scammer used her address in a sex service fraud. When strangers arrived at her home expecting to meet arrangements set online, Thanida discovered that a 29-year-old scammer had been tricking men into paying for non-existent services and directing them to her house. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352394-scam-leads-strangers-to-thai-womans-home-for-fake-sex-services-video/

Pattaya Beach Altercation: Rising Tensions Among Tourists Photo courtesy of The Nation Last night, February 19th, a street fight erupted near Pattaya Beach, leaving four people injured. The fight involved two Thai women and two Indian men, with a Thai man who attempted to intervene also getting hurt. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352386-pattaya-beach-altercation-rising-tensions-among-tourists/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 21 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1352396-thailand-live-friday-21-february-2025/

12-Year-Old in Critical Condition After Vaping for Two Years Photo courtesy of The Nation In Buriram, Thailand, a 12-year-old girl is critically ill after vaping for two years, which has led to almost complete lung damage. The distressing news came to light when her school informed her family, highlighting the growing youth vaping crisis in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352389-12-year-old-in-critical-condition-after-vaping-for-two-years/

Ethiopian Men Share Shocking Abuse Stories from Myanmar Scam Compounds Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post An alarming tale of human trafficking and exploitation has emerged as four Ethiopian men, among 260 people released from Myanmar, recounted harrowing abuse within notorious scam compounds. These victims, primarily trafficked under false pretences, have found temporary refuge in a Thai military camp in Fort Wachiraprakan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352352-ethiopian-men-share-shocking-abuse-stories-from-myanmar-scam-compounds/

Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post An alarming tale of human trafficking and exploitation has emerged as four Ethiopian men, among 260 people released from Myanmar, recounted harrowing abuse within notorious scam compounds. These victims, primarily trafficked under false pretences, have found temporary refuge in a Thai military camp in Fort Wachiraprakan. Yotor, a 19-year-old Ethiopian, bravely showcased scars and bruises, including cuts along his leg, to highlight the brutality endured during his captivity. "I got a lot of punishments," Yotor confided, detailing the daily electric shocks he suffered as part of the compound’s horrific disciplinary measures. The multinational crackdown on these compounds marks Thailand’s first significant action against the criminal syndicates that have trafficked thousands to operate illegal online scams along the Thai-Myanmar border. Fuelled by the abduction of Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was ultimately rescued, Thailand enhanced its efforts following China's concerns and calls for intervention. In response, Thailand has strategically cut electricity, fuel, and internet supplies to key border areas. These actions align with Beijing's objective to repatriate scam victims and perpetrators. A top Chinese security official is majorly involved in these operations, focusing on humane repatriation and dismantling the trafficking networks. The Ethiopian men, including Yotor, were misled by promises of legitimate employment but found themselves trapped and coerced into scamming unwitting internet users. Faysal, a 21-year-old Bangladeshi, relayed how the victims were forced to engage in relentless 20-hour workdays aimed at defrauding unsuspecting men using platforms like WhatsApp. Faysal explained their horrendous predicament, sharing that once targets were hooked through false emotional connections, the scam protocol dictated that victims manipulate for financial gain. When employees failed to meet the exploiters' demands, severe beatings followed. "We are not scammers," Faysal pleaded in his testimony. "We are victims." Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra disclosed that approximately 7,000 people await transfer from Myanmar to Thailand under the ongoing repatriation initiative. Among these, around 600 Chinese nationals will soon be flown home, as coordinated by Thai Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, solidifying both nations' commitment to addressing and resolving this grim human trafficking crisis. These revelations shine a spotlight on the urgent need for continued international cooperation and comprehensive strategies to protect and support the victims, dismantle trafficking networks, and ensure justice for those systematically oppressed by these criminal syndicates, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-20

UPDATE: British Tourist's Cocaine Bust Turns Phuket Arrival Sour Picture courtesy of The Private World A British tourist's vacation plans took a dramatic turn as Phuket International Airport became the unlikely setting of his legal troubles. The 42-year-old man faced arrest on February 18 after airport authorities discovered 4.11 grammes of cocaine concealed in his baggage upon arrival. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352309-british-tourist-arrested-at-phuket-airport-for-cocaine-possession/#findComment-19601972

British Tourist's Cocaine Bust Turns Phuket Arrival Sour Picture courtesy of The Private World A British tourist's vacation plans took a dramatic turn as Phuket International Airport became the unlikely setting of his legal troubles. The 42-year-old man faced arrest on February 18 after airport authorities discovered 4.11 grammes of cocaine concealed in his baggage upon arrival. It all began around 5pm in the bustling international arrivals hall, where airport staff picked up on the man’s erratic behaviour. His agitated antics drew attention, prompting a thorough search from customs officers that led to the unearthing of the illicit substance stashed in a plastic bag. While the man's identity remains undisclosed, his situation became a matter of public record as he was escorted to Sakhu Police Station. There, he faces serious charges, including possession and illegal importation of a Category 2 narcotic—his holiday in Thailand now overshadowed by a brush with the law. The incidence of drug-related arrests involving British nationals in Phuket isn’t unprecedented. Earlier this year, law enforcement encountered a British individual engaged in questionable conduct. Under scrutiny during a roadside interaction with Kamala Police, officers found ketamine in his possession, leading to his arrest. This case, like the recent airport incident, highlights a troubling trend where some visitors engage in illicit drug activities amidst Thailand’s tropical allure. While individual details may remain undisclosed, such instances serve as stark reminders of the Thai authorities' zero-tolerance stance on drug offences. Travellers, drawn by the island's famed beaches and nightlife, face severe legal repercussions if caught in possession of narcotics. The police, known for conducting routine patrols and stringent checks, stress the importance of adherence to local laws. Photographic evidence from past seizures, such as images on the police's official social media, underscores the continued vigilance in monitoring and disrupting the illegal drug trade in tourism hotspots like Phuket. British tourists and other international visitors are thus urged to enjoy Thailand responsibly, aware of the legal boundaries that exist to preserve its idyllic landscapes. As authorities maintain their firm grip on preventing drug offences, respecting local laws remains crucial for ensuring a pleasant and lawful stay, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-20