A 28-year-old Saudi Arabian man was arrested at Phuket International Airport after allegedly attempting to smuggle ketamine out of Thailand by concealing capsules inside his underwear. The arrest took place at approximately 20:00 on 3 June 2026 in the international departures terminal. Get today's headlines by email Customs officers stationed at Phuket International Airport, working alongside police, detained the suspect after he had checked in for an Etihad Airways flight. Investigators said he had deposited two pieces of luggage, passed through immigration and entered the international departure screening area before being stopped. While passing through a body scanner, officers detected an anomaly and carried out a more detailed search. During the inspection, authorities discovered 63 red-and-white capsules containing a white powder concealed in a white cloth bag inside the suspect’s underwear. Officials seized the capsules, which had a total weight of approximately 32 grams and were suspected to contain ketamine. Two iPhones were also confiscated as part of the investigation. Preliminary testing of the powder using an ONCB053 Ketamine Reagent produced a light purple reaction, indicating the substance was ketamine. Under Thai law, ketamine is classified as a Category 2 narcotic. The suspect was subsequently charged with attempting to export a Category 2 narcotic without permission and unlawful possession of a Category 2 narcotic. He also faces charges under the Customs Act B.E. 2560 (2017). The suspect and all seized evidence were handed over to investigators at Sakhu Police Station for further legal proceedings. Pol. Col. Salan Santisatsanakul, superintendent of Sakhu Police Station, said authorities continue to maintain strict screening measures at airports to prevent Thailand from being used as a transit route for international drug trafficking. Khaosod reported that police said the investigation remains ongoing as officers seek to determine whether the suspect is connected to a wider drug trafficking network. Pictures courtesy of Khaosod Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 6 June 2026
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