Couple Running 24-Hour ‘Convenience Store’ Drug Operation Busted in Sa Kaeo

Picture courtesy of Workpoint.

A couple who transformed their home into a 24-hour drug-dealing operation disguised as a convenience store have been arrested in a police raid in Aranyaprathet, Sa Kaeo Province.

On the evening of 17 July, a coordinated operation was carried out under the direction of Sa Kaeo Governor Parinya Phothsathit. The raid involved the Sa Kaeo Territorial Defence Volunteer Unit 1, Aranyaprathet District Administration, Central Investigation Bureau officers, and Border Patrol Police Unit 12. The action followed intelligence reports indicating illegal drug sales from a private residence on Kilo 2 Road, Aranyaprathet subdistrict.

The raid resulted in the arrest of Mr. Watcharen 46, also known as “Yo,” and his wife Ms. Mutita 42, known as “Oo.” Officers seized 123 small packets of crystal methamphetamine weighing 78.3 grams, and 63 packets containing a total of 420 methamphetamine tablets, all packaged and ready for retail or wholesale distribution.

Authorities revealed that the couple had converted their house into a fortified structure resembling a mini-mart, complete with iron grilles to deter raids. Drugs were sold on a walk-in basis, customers, both known and unknown, could simply approach the house, hand over cash and leave with narcotics.

At the time of the raid, more than 30 individuals, including both Thai and Cambodian nationals, were reportedly waiting to buy drugs. Officers detained several for questioning and evidence collection.

The couple now face multiple serious charges, including possession and trafficking of Category 1 narcotics (methamphetamine and crystal meth) with intent to sell. Police believe the operation had been running around the clock, mimicking a legitimate retail business and was gaining popularity among local users.

Officials stated this bust forms part of a wider crackdown aimed at dismantling local drug networks and restoring community safety. The suspects and evidence have been handed over to Aranyaprathet Police Station for legal proceedings.

  Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-07-19