Pictures courtesy of Khaosod.

 

Customs officers have seized over 33 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, known as “ice”, ingeniously concealed within a metal lathe machine scheduled for export to Australia. The haul, with an estimated street value of more than 100 million baht, was uncovered at Bangkok Port on 26 May.

 

The operation was revealed in a joint press conference held at the Customs Department on 4 June, involving senior officials from multiple agencies. These included Mrs Nanthita Sirikhup, Advisor on Customs Control Systems; Mr Ekawut Na-ek, Director of Bangkok Port Customs; Mr Peeraphong Rampoengchit, Director of Narcotics Suppression Division 6 (ONCB); Pol. Col. Phairoj Khiawnarapai, Superintendent of Narcotics Suppression Division 3; and Lt. Cdr. Sirarin Chaiyasinakkrayot, Operations Director of Bangkok Port Authority.

Mrs Nanthita explained that the seizure was a result of strict enforcement of anti-drug trafficking measures under the policy direction of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who has prioritised the fight against drug smuggling. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, along with Deputy Finance Minister Julphan Amornvivat, have ordered heightened vigilance from Customs officials, particularly in preventing drug exports through shipping routes.

 

Using a combination of risk management tools, X-ray scanning and physical inspections, Customs officers flagged a suspicious consignment declared as a metal lathe machine. On 26 May at 16:00, the shipment, contained in a wooden crate, was subjected to closer examination.

 

X-ray imagery revealed irregularities within the machine, prompting a physical inspection. Officers discovered 26 foil-wrapped packages and two clear plastic bags hidden inside, all containing a crystalline white substance. Lab tests confirmed the substance as methamphetamine (ice), with a gross weight of 33.73 kilograms.

 

Officials stated that this case constitutes a serious criminal offence, involving an attempt to illegally export a Category 1 narcotic out of the Kingdom, and possession of such narcotics with intent to distribute. These actions are in violation of both Thailand’s Narcotics Code and Sections 244, 252, 166, and 167 of the 2017 Customs Act.

 

Authorities have not yet disclosed further details regarding suspects or arrests but emphasised that investigations are ongoing.

 

The bust highlights the growing sophistication of drug smuggling operations and the need for continued vigilance at all points of entry and exit, according to Customs officials.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-05

 

 

 

Australia seems to be a large importer of drugs fromThailand.