A Nigerian national alleged to be the head of a major cocaine trafficking network in Thailand was arrested in Bangkok late on Tuesday night 9 June 2026, following a police operation that ended in a dramatic attempt to evade capture. Metropolitan Police Bureau (MPB) investigators arrested Ikenna Patrick Azubuike, 36, outside a condominium on Rama III Road in Yannawa district after he allegedly tried to force his way through a police blockade.

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The suspect, commonly known as Patrick, was charged with possessing and selling a Category 2 narcotic (cocaine) and resisting arrest. Authorities said additional money-laundering charges are under consideration. Police seized cocaine, a vehicle, cash, bank funds and other assets worth more than 700,000 baht during the operation.

The investigation began on 22 May when MPB investigators raided a condominium near Phra Nang Klao Bridge in Nonthaburi that was allegedly being used as a base for a romance scam operation. Six foreign nationals were arrested during that raid.

Following the operation, deputy national police chief Pol Gen Samrarn Nuanma ordered investigators to expand the inquiry. Police said the investigation uncovered links between the romance scam syndicate and a cocaine trafficking network connected to a criminal organisation with more than 300 million baht circulating through its activities.

Investigators identified the network as ‘Dodorima’, which they described as a regional alliance of African criminal figures in Thailand and an offshoot of a larger international organisation known as NBM of Africa. Police alleged that members attempted to conceal their activities through charitable donations and community outreach programmes.

Authorities said Patrick had lived in Thailand for more than seven years and travelled frequently between Thailand and Africa. Investigators believe he progressed from selling cocaine in tourist areas to leading the network in Thailand. Police estimated that more than 380 million baht passed through the group’s accounts during the past year and alleged that significant sums were transferred to Nigeria, where Patrick reportedly built a large mansion.

Police said Patrick was surrounded by trusted associates and used sophisticated methods to hide financial transactions. Investigators eventually concluded that although he was no longer directly involved in most street-level drug sales, he continued to influence the trade through cocaine distribution to prominent clients.

Pictures courtesy of Thaitabloid

During the arrest operation, officers attempted to block Patrick’s vehicle, but he allegedly reversed into police officers, causing injuries. Pol Maj Gen Theeradej Thamsuthee ordered officers to smash the vehicle’s windows and disable its engine before taking him into custody. Officers later found about 18 grammes of cocaine in the vehicle and additional cash and assets in his condominium.

Patrick partially admitted involvement with cocaine offences but denied money-laundering allegations. He claimed the group’s activities were funded through a fish-export business between Thailand and Nigeria and said the word “Dodomira” means “hello”.

Thaitabloid reported that police have transferred seized assets to the Office of the Narcotics Control Board for further investigation and tracing. Authorities said they will continue working with international partners to identify financial flows and pursue both Thai and foreign accomplices linked to the organisation.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 11 June 2026

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32 minutes ago, Georgealbert said:

Investigators eventually concluded that although he was no longer directly involved in most street-level drug sales, he continued to influence the trade through cocaine distribution to prominent clients.

Patrick had the hustle and the work ethic, rare among today's businessmen.

From foot soldier to capo, he was always destined for the top.

Smoooove!

Oh no.

How will I get my $100 million he promised me.

Was he on the DTV ?

4 minutes ago, DonniePeverley said:

Was he on the DTV ?

I too wondered what type of visa permitted him to come and go so readily.

Edited 13 minutes ago13 min by jacko45k