Two Japanese nationals suspected of links to organised crime were arrested in Bangkok’s Sukhumvit area for allegedly selling crystal methamphetamine to foreign clients. Immigration Bureau investigators detained the men on the evening of 2 May 2026 in Soi Sukhumvit 33, seizing 16.04 grams of the drug hidden in a scooter.

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The suspects, identified as Mr Yuya, 47 and Mr Naoto, 51, were taken into custody by officers from the Immigration Bureau Investigation Division. They face charges of jointly possessing a Category 1 narcotic. Both men denied ownership of the drugs at the time of arrest.

The operation followed intelligence from informants that two Japanese men with tattoos resembling yakuza members were distributing drugs in the busy Sukhumvit 33 area. Officers conducted surveillance before intercepting the pair as they arrived on a Honda ADV350 scooter and carried out a search.

Methamphetamine was discovered concealed in the front storage compartment of the vehicle. A preliminary chemical test confirmed the substance as crystal meth after producing a brown reaction, consistent with standard testing results.

Investigators said they had monitored the group’s activities for an extended period and gathered sufficient evidence before making the arrests. The suspects were transferred to Thonglor Police Station for further legal proceedings.

Immigration Bureau Commissioner Lt Gen Phanumart Boonyalak stated that authorities are tightening visa extension checks amid concerns over foreign nationals engaging in criminal activities while posing as tourists. He noted that such individuals often reside in condominiums or apartments in Bangkok and key tourist destinations.

Officials warned that foreigners found to have criminal backgrounds or behaviour deemed a threat to society will be denied visa extensions and deported immediately. The bureau has urged the public to report suspicious activity via its 24-hour hotline.

The case highlights ongoing efforts by Thai authorities to curb transnational crime and strengthen immigration enforcement. Investigations are expected to continue to determine whether the suspects are linked to a wider network.

Khaosod reported that police will pursue further inquiries into the supply chain and potential associates connected to the operation. Authorities also plan to maintain increased scrutiny of visa applicants to prevent similar cases.

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 4 May 2026

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two Japanese men with tattoos

Ban men with tattoos....Problem solved...

"...Officials warned that foreigners found to have criminal backgrounds or behaviour deemed a threat to society will be denied visa extensions and deported immediately..."

Hold on there - that's like shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted!

Why not stop them coming into the country in the first place?

12 hours ago, Jim Waldron said:

Why not stop them coming into the country in the first place?

Could the TDAC help in this respect. It might ask if a person has a criminal record, if daft enough to say 'yes' they could be blocked!

Not sure I believe this one.

Japanese are the best behaved tourists in Thailand.

I don't think Japanese people in general are involved in crime in Thailand.

Just now, Woke to Sounds said:

Not sure I believe this one.

Japanese are the best behaved tourists in Thailand.

I don't think Japanese people in general are involved in crime in Thailand.

18 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

The suspects, identified as Mr Yuya, 47 and Mr Naoto, 51, were

Yea, the names don't sound Nigerian.

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