Thailand warns students about ‘rub hew’ courier service amid drug trafficking concerns

[webfact]

Authorities in Nonthaburi, Thailand, intercepted a suspicious package containing 7.5 kilogrammes of cocaine, concealed inside 15 seat cushions, on January 2. The package, which was addressed to the homeowner’s daughter studying in Australia, was discovered after the homeowner reported the package.

 

In Thailand, a trend called rub hew, which translates to help carry, is common among young people studying abroad. It involves offering transnational courier services for a fee, depending on the weight of the package. This service is often found on social media pages used by overseas student groups and frequent travellers.

 

However, authorities have warned about the dangers of participating in these activities. Piyasiri Wattanavarangkul, deputy secretary-general of the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), advised that many couriers unknowingly become victims of drug trafficking networks. He clarified that despite being unknowing carriers, couriers can still face prosecution if found with an illegal substance.

 

In 2023 alone, 16 Thais were apprehended at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang and Phuket airports for attempting to smuggle drugs out of the country. According to the Narcotics Suppression Bureau (NSB) commissioner, Police Lieutenant General Khirisak Tantinvachai, the majority of these offenders were aware they were carrying drugs, mostly heroin and methamphetamines.

 

by Mitch Connor

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-02

 

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[flyingtlger]

19 minutes ago, webfact said:

the majority of these offenders were aware they were carrying drugs, mostly heroin and methamphetamines.

Do the crime,

Do the time.....

[hotchilli]

3 hours ago, webfact said:

In Thailand, a trend called rub hew, which translates to help carry, is common among young people studying abroad. It involves offering transnational courier services for a fee, depending on the weight of the package. This service is often found on social media pages used by overseas student groups and frequent travellers.

Do it at your peril... 

[PETERTHEEATER]

I rub hew wrong time......?