A Nigerian national identified as Mr. Patric, 47, has been arrested in Bangkok as part of a police operation targeting a cocaine trafficking network, with officers seizing drugs and assets worth millions of baht. The suspect, described as a key figure in the distribution of cocaine in Thailand, was detained on 18 April 2026 near Soi Silom 1 in the Bang Rak district. Authorities also arrested three additional suspects and confiscated cocaine, cash, and other assets during the coordinated raids.
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The operation was led by senior officers including Pol Lt Gen Siam Boonsom, Pol Lt Gen Aachayon Kraitong, and Pol Maj Gen Thiradet Thamsuthee, alongside narcotics suppression units and the Office of the Narcotics Control Board. Mr. Patric faces five counts related to the illegal possession and distribution of a Category 2 narcotic (cocaine) for commercial purposes. Police said he had lived in Thailand for over 17 years, allegedly using a sham marriage to a Thai national to remain in the country.
Further arrests included Mr. Thomas, 60, a Swiss national found with 0.87 grams of cocaine in Nonthaburi, and two Thai nationals, Yot, 35, and Nat, 34, who were detained in Bangkok. The latter two were charged with joint possession of cocaine without permission. In total, officers seized approximately 30 grams of cocaine, a vehicle, around 1.5 million baht in cash, foreign currency and additional assets valued at over 400,000 baht.
The investigation stemmed from intelligence gathered throughout 2025 and early 2026, with officers spending around four months building the case. Surveillance on 18 April 2026 revealed a drug transaction, leading to Mr. Patric’s arrest at approximately 23:00. During a search of his residence, officers discovered over one million baht hidden above a bathroom ceiling.
Police reported that Mr. Patric initially did not cooperate and later experienced leg cramps during the arrest. He subsequently broke down in tears and pleaded to return home, stating he did not want to grow old in a Thai prison. He admitted the charges, saying he was shocked to be caught and claimed the hidden money had been brought from Nigeria and was being stored rather than concealed.
Pictures courtesy of Khaosod
Authorities stated the arrest significantly disrupts a major drug network operating in Thailand and that further investigations are ongoing to identify additional suspects. Seized assets have been transferred to the Office of the Narcotics Control Board for legal proceedings.
Khaosod reported that all suspects have been handed over to investigators at Thung Maha Mek Police Station, Chaiyaphruek Police Station, and Bang Phong Phang Police Station for prosecution under Thai law.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 20 Apr 2026