An Australian tourist was found dead inside a condominium in Phuket, with police discovering a plate containing white powder near the body. The incident was reported at around 7.30pm on May 20, 2026, at a condominium in Karon subdistrict, Mueang district, Phuket.
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Police from Karon Police Station, led by Pol Lt Col Ekasak Khwanwan, deputy investigation inspector, attended the scene after receiving a report of a death inside the property. Officers informed Pol Col Patapee Srichai, superintendent of Karon Police Station, before carrying out an inspection of the room.
The deceased was later identified by authorities as Christopher Kazantzidis, 27, an Australian national. His body was found lying on the floor inside the condominium room.
Condominium staff told investigators they had last seen the tourist at approximately 12.20am on May 19, 2026. Staff later became suspicious and contacted the condominium owner to open the room, where Mr Kazantzidis was discovered dead before police were alerted.
Initial checks at the scene found a plate containing white powder placed on a table close to the body. Police said there were no signs of a struggle or any physical assault.
Forensic officers were called to collect evidence from the room, while forensic doctors from Vachira Phuket Hospital will carry out a post-mortem examination. Authorities said the white powder would be sent for laboratory testing as part of the investigation.
Police have not confirmed the cause of death and said further examination and forensic analysis are required. Officers are also coordinating with the Australian embassy regarding the death and the next steps.
Amarin reported that the case remains under investigation, with authorities expected to await toxicology and forensic results before determining the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Pictures courtesy of Amarin
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 21 May 2026