A coordinated police operation in Phuket on February 17 led to the arrest of four foreign individuals and the seizure of over 3.1 kilograms of cocaine. This effort aims to dismantle an alleged transnational drug network focusing on tourists. The operation was conducted by the Narcotics Suppression Bureau (NSB) and other local police divisions.
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The crackdown was spearheaded by NSB's Lieutenant General Achayon Kraithong, alongside Phuket's police commander Major General Sinlert Sukhum and Major General Teera Thongrayap from NSB Division 4. Information was received suggesting that foreign nationals were selling cocaine in tourist hotspots around Phuket.
Following investigative efforts, a court warrant enabled the arrest of a Nigerian suspect, leading to further arrests linked to the network. Authorities, including NSB, Tourist Police, and Immigration Police, inspected a popular area in Patong, Kathu district, where two more suspects were detained. The Nigerian suspect was charged with possession of cocaine, and another individual was arrested for illegal entry into Thailand.
Prior to this raid, NSB Division 4, alongside the Customs Department and Phuket Provincial Police, intercepted a Brazilian man at Phuket International Airport with 3.1 kg of cocaine hidden in his luggage. According to officials, this was part of the same operation targeting distribution to tourists.
Lieutenant General Achayon emphasized continued operations in major tourist and economic zones to break down the drug network. He urged the public to report drug-related activities through hotlines or at local police stations, reported The Thaiger.
Key Takeaways
Four foreign suspects were arrested in Phuket with over 3.1 kg of cocaine.
The operation aims to dismantle a network targeting tourists.
Police continue to focus on drug enforcement in key tourist areas.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 18 Feb 2026