Thai police, working with South Korean police have arrested a 51-year-old South Korean man identified as Choi Byungmin, a major transnational drug trafficking suspect, at a housing estate in Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan province, Thailand, on 10 April 2026. The arrest followed a coordinated operation based on intelligence shared by South Korean authorities, who believed the suspect was hiding in Thailand.
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The case is linked to a wider international drug network involving a key figure known as Park Wangyol, also known by the alias “worldwide”, who was previously repatriated from the Philippines to South Korea on 25 March 2026 to face drug-related charges. Investigators said the network allegedly used social media platforms to coordinate cross-border drug trafficking operations, including activities conducted even while detained in prison. Following his arrest, Choi Byungmin was identified as an important accomplice within the same organisation and was subject to an INTERPOL Red Notice on conspiracy to traffic drugs charges.
Thai police from the Samut Prakan Provincial Investigation Unit, working with the Immigration Bureau, conducted surveillance and confirmed that Choi was residing in a residential property in Bang Phli. Authorities obtained a search warrant from the Samut Prakan Provincial Court and carried out a raid, discovering the suspect inside the premises. Initial checks indicated that he had no legal record of entry into Thailand, with investigators believing he had crossed the border illegally via natural routes after fleeing South Korea and travelling through Cambodia.
During the search, officers seized more than 10 mobile phones and over 20 electronic devices, including computers, which are now being analysed for digital evidence. Preliminary findings reportedly indicate links to drug trafficking instructions, particularly involving methamphetamine shipments from the Philippines. Choi allegedly admitted during questioning that he fled South Korea, travelled to Cambodia, and then entered Thailand illegally before settling in the Bang Phli area.
The Daily News reported that authorities are now conducting a detailed forensic examination of the seized digital devices and continuing coordination with South Korean law enforcement to expand the investigation into the broader network. Officials aim to identify additional suspects and potential links operating within Thailand and other countries. The suspect remains in custody and faces charges of illegal entry into Thailand, with extradition procedures expected to follow in line with international cooperation frameworks.
Pictures courtesy of Daily News
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 12 Apr 2026
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