Russian Man Held With Drugs at Phuket Checkpoint

A 29-year-old Russian man was arrested at a security checkpoint in Phuket after police discovered large quantities of illegal drugs in his possession while he travelled on a passenger bus from Pattaya to Phuket.

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The arrest took place on 18 May 2026 at the Phuket checkpoint in Mai Khao, Thalang district. Officers from Thachatchai Police Station and Phuket Provincial Police stopped the incoming bus for a routine identity check at the island entry checkpoint.

Police identified the suspect as Mr. Gorskii Matvei, a Russian national. Officers said he appeared nervous and agitated during the inspection and allegedly attempted to push a bag further beneath his seat using his feet after noticing police presence.

Authorities requested permission to search the bag, which the suspect reportedly allowed. Inside, officers said they found multiple narcotics, including 564.74 grams of crystal methamphetamine, 471.92 grams of mephedrone, 129.8 grams of heroin, 51 grams of ecstasy, 54.6 grams of amphetamine and 582 grams of ketamine.

Police also seized two mobile phones, one MacBook laptop and 11,320 baht in cash. The suspect was taken into custody at Thachatchai Police Station for further legal proceedings.

According to police, the man has been charged with possession of Category 1 narcotics with intent to distribute without permission, an offence authorities said could contribute to the spread of drugs among the public.

Investigators later found the suspect had overstayed his permission to stay. Immigration records showed his permission expired on 15 June 2025. Authorities also stated he had previously entered and exited Thailand several times previously through border crossings in Chanthaburi and Nong Khai provinces.

The operation was conducted under the direction of Major General Sinlert Sukhum, commander of Phuket Provincial Police, and senior officers including Police Colonel Aknit Danpitaksat, deputy commander of Phuket Provincial Police. Officers from the checkpoint investigation and patrol teams joined the arrest operation.

Khaosod reported that police said they are now expanding the investigation to identify any wider drug trafficking connections linked to the suspect and the seized narcotics. Further legal action is expected as the investigation continues.

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 19 May 2026