A Saudi Arabian man was arrested in Patong, Phuket, on July 22 after police found crystal methamphetamine and cocaine in his possession. The arrest was made during Operation 90 Days, an ongoing anti-drug campaign run by Patong Police Station. Police said the man was detained in the car park outside a hotel in Patong subdistrict, Kathu district. Drugs and equipment seized Officers subsequently searched the man's accommodation and reported finding further evidence. The items seized included about 4.04 grammes of crystal methamphetamine, about 1.70 grammes of cocaine, a mobile phone and a digital weighing scale. Police charged him with unauthorised possession of a Category 1 narcotic, methamphetamine, with intent to sell, and unauthorised possession of a Category 2 narcotic, cocaine. The suspect and the seized items were handed to investigators at Patong Police Station for legal proceedings. Potential penalties under Thai law Under Thailand's Narcotics Code, unauthorised possession of a Category 1 narcotic with intent to sell can carry a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a fine of up to 1.5 million baht. Unauthorised possession of a Category 2 narcotic can be punished by up to 10 years' imprisonment and a fine of up to 1 million baht. The case is a reminder for foreign residents and visitors that Thailand takes drug offences seriously, including cases involving small quantities. Foreign nationality does not remove the risk of arrest, prosecution, possible imprisonment and substantial fines under Thai law. Patong, one of Phuket's busiest tourist areas, is home to large numbers of overseas visitors and long-stay residents. Anyone facing a criminal allegation in Thailand may need to deal with police investigations and court proceedings locally, alongside any possible immigration consequences. Operation 90 Days continues Patong Police Station said the arrest formed part of Operation 90 Days, its continuing campaign against illegal drugs in the area. Police have alleged that the methamphetamine was intended for sale, while the cocaine charge relates to possession without permission. The allegations will be considered through the legal process. Picture courtesy of Patong Police Station Join the discussion? 24 July 2026
View full article
Create an account or sign in to comment