Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

Authorities in Sa Kaeo have arrested two construction contractors accused of paying their labourers with methamphetamine pills instead of wages.

 

The arrests were made after local officials received complaints from the public regarding the disturbing practice. The accused, known locally by the aliases “M” and “Toon Khok Sumphan”, are believed to have routinely distributed yaba to workers at their building sites in lieu of regular pay.

 

Acting on orders from provincial governor Mr Parinya Phothisat and Sa Kaeo’s chief district officer Mr Suthep Chaiwat, an anti-narcotics task force led by Mr Prasert Singthong, the provincial chief of security, conducted the raid with assistance from a volunteer defence corps and special operations teams.

 

The suspects, Mr Chatnarin 36 and Mr Sattawat, were arrested with a quantity of yaba pills in their possession. One suspect was found with 142 meth pills and 6.3 grams of crystal methamphetamine.

 

Upon questioning, both men admitted to running a local construction business in Tha Kasem subdistrict. They told police that many of their workers were already addicted to meth and used the drug to stay alert and work longer hours. Seeing an opportunity, the contractors allegedly began supplying the pills directly, deducting the cost from the workers’ wages.

 

Officials say that in some cases, workers were left with little or no pay after deductions for the drugs. As demand increased, the suspects allegedly expanded their operation by selling the drugs to local youths in the area.

 

Authorities have launched an extended investigation into the wider network believed to be supplying the methamphetamine. Both suspects are now in custody and have been handed over to investigators at Mueang Sa Kaeo Police Station for legal proceedings.

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-07-11

 

 

 

When you want the job done quick! ..🤪