Thai immigration police have arrested an Israeli national accused of involvement in a major drug trafficking network after he allegedly fled to Koh Samui to evade prosecution in Israel.

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The suspect, identified only as 36-year-old Tol, was detained on 26 May 2026 by officers from Surat Thani Immigration Police following coordination with Israeli police representatives in Thailand. Israeli authorities had issued an arrest warrant for him over alleged involvement in drug trafficking and violent crime in Israel.

Police said the operation began after Immigration Division 2 informed Surat Thani immigration officers that the suspect had recently been traced to the popular tourist island of Koh Samui. Officers were also instructed to revoke his permission to stay in Thailand on the grounds that he posed a threat to national security.

Investigators tracked the suspect to his accommodation after discovering he had travelled from Singapore to Koh Samui on a commercial flight. Immigration officers then moved in and detained him.

A subsequent search of the property uncovered cocaine, MDMA and powdered narcotics packaged in several small plastic bags. Officers also seized digital weighing scales allegedly used for handling drugs. The items were reportedly hidden inside the kitchen area of the accommodation.

Police stated that the packaging and weighing equipment suggested the suspect may have been supplying drugs to tourists in Thailand, rather than simply hiding from prosecution overseas.

During questioning, Tol reportedly admitted being part of a drug trafficking network in Israel and confirmed he had fled to Thailand. However, he claimed the narcotics found in his room had been purchased for personal use after visiting Koh Phangan.

Investigators said they were not convinced by the explanation and are continuing to examine evidence, including digital records and possible supply routes, to identify the source of the drugs and any associates operating in Thailand.

The suspect has been transferred to Bo Phut Police Station on Koh Samui to face charges of illegal possession of Category 1 and Category 2 narcotics. Authorities stated that once legal proceedings in Thailand are complete, he will be deported to Israel to face further prosecution.

Thai immigration officials also confirmed that the suspect will be permanently blacklisted from re-entering Thailand.

ThaiRath reported that Police Colonel Naruwat Phutthawiro, chief of Surat Thani Immigration Police, said the arrest followed orders from Police General Samran Nuanma, deputy national police chief and director of the national centre targeting transnational crime and illegal immigration. He said immigration officers nationwide had been instructed to intensify action against foreign criminals operating in Thailand.

Pictures courtesy of Newna

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thairath 27 May 2026

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It must be a mistake. Another case of Anti-Semitism. Better call all the Chabad Center of Thailand and take action.

13 minutes ago, GoodieAfterDark said:

It must be a mistake. Another case of Anti-Semitism. Better call all the Chabad Center of Thailand and take action.

Its just a normal drug bust, no need to bring Religious beliefs into it .

BTW, are all the replies so far humerous replies ?

Not sure whether people are joking or being serious

OH NO!! not one of the choosen few, how can it be?

If it was up to me, I would choose to give the "chosen one" life and let him rot in prison along with others that follow in his foot steps.

Off topic posts about the middle east war removed. There are plenty of topics in the world news section to discuss that.

Let's get this clear. He was arrested for his criminal acts. His citizenship has nothing to do with it.

And another one to add to the list ! 🙄

yet, looks so chill there in that image, smoking his last cig and making the good-bye phone call.

In other countries he would have his face smashed down the concrete loosing a few teeth on the way, which is what they deserve anyways.

Too lenient the Thai police.

why no more finger pointing in recent pics?

Edited May 27May 27 by NicoBKK

6 hours ago, unblocktheplanet said:

Let's get this clear. He was arrested for his criminal acts. His citizenship has nothing to do with it.

6 hours ago, unblocktheplanet said:

Let's get this clear. He was arrested for his criminal acts. His citizenship has nothing to do with it.

6 hours ago, unblocktheplanet said:

Let's get this clear. He was arrested for his criminal acts. His citizenship has nothing to do with it.

Except he was arrested following a tip off from the Israeli authorities and will be deported back to Israel. But other than that, his citizenship is irrelevant.