Two Arrested as 100kg of Ketamine Seized in Mae Sai Raid

Pictures courtesy of Naewna

Authorities have arrested two suspects and seized 100 kilogrammes of ketamine following a raid on a rented house in Mae Sai district, Chiang Rai province, on Saturday morning, 27 December. The drugs were discovered hidden inside large plant pots and on the back of a pickup truck, marking a significant interception of illicit narcotics before distribution.

The operation took place after security forces received intelligence indicating that a large quantity of drugs was being concealed at a property in Wiang Hom village, Moo 4, Mae Sai subdistrict. Officers from the 3rd Cavalry Company of the Chao Taksin Task Force, under the Pha Muang Force, worked jointly with Mae Sai police and district administrative officials to carry out the search.

Inside the rented house, authorities found two occupants identified as Mr Sakan, from Krathum Baen district in Samut Sakhon province, and Ms Thawanrat, from Na Wang district in Nong Bua Lamphu province. A white Mazda pickup truck bearing Chiang Rai registration plates was parked at the property alongside several large plant pots placed within the compound.

A detailed inspection revealed four fertiliser sacks concealed inside the plant pots and on the rear of the pickup truck. Three of the sacks were completely filled with a Category 2 narcotic substance, identified as ketamine, while a fourth sack was in the process of being filled. The total weight of the seized drugs was confirmed as 100 kilogrammes.

Officials stated that both suspects were taken into custody at the scene without incident. The seized ketamine and other related evidence were secured for forensic examination and the operation was reported as part of ongoing efforts to curb drug trafficking in northern border areas.

Authorities indicated that the seizure underscores continued attempts by trafficking networks to exploit residential areas and everyday objects to conceal narcotics. The use of rented properties and vehicles registered locally was noted as a tactic intended to avoid detection by law enforcement.

Naewna reported that both suspects have been handed over to investigators at Mae Sai Police Station for further questioning and formal legal proceedings. Police are expected to expand the investigation to determine whether additional individuals are involved and to trace the origin and intended destination of the drugs.

Key Takeaways

• Two suspects were arrested after 100 kilogrammes of ketamine were seized in Mae Sai, Chiang Rai.

• The drugs were hidden in plant pots and a pickup truck at a rented house in Wiang Hom village.

• The suspects are in police custody as investigations continue to identify wider links.

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 Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-12-28