Thai authorities arrested two Lao nationals, on 23 June 2026, at the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge No. 1 border checkpoint in Nong Khai province, after discovering a large quantity of illegal drugs concealed in a vehicle entering from Laos. Officers seized 200,000 methamphetamine pills and 88 kg of crystal methamphetamine.

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The operation was carried out by Customs officers in Nong Khai in cooperation with the upper northeastern narcotics suppression and prevention division, Border Patrol Police Unit 2 (R.13), under the Second Army Area and the Narcotics Suppression Command (NBOYS 24). The suspects were identified as Thao Phonchai, the driver, and Thao Anongsak, the passenger. They were travelling from the Lao PDR into Thailand in a white Lexus car, which was found to contain the drugs.

Authorities confirmed that both suspects were detained along with the seized narcotics and the vehicle. The evidence was documented and the case transferred to Muang Nong Khai Police Station for legal proceedings. Investigators are now working to identify the wider trafficking network connected to the shipment.

Officials said the seizure forms part of ongoing cross-border efforts to disrupt drug smuggling routes along the Mekong region. Further investigations are expected to trace the origin of the drugs and any additional collaborators involved in the operation.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to map out any associated cross-border trafficking routes and identify those responsible for organising the shipment. Officials reiterated that the seizure is part of sustained enforcement measures targeting narcotics smuggling across the Mekong corridor, with multi-agency coordination continuing between customs, police and military units.

Khaosod reported that all seized drugs, the vehicle, and documentation were submitted as evidence to support prosecution under Thai narcotics legislation. Authorities continue to emphasise border vigilance in response to ongoing drug trafficking risks in the region.

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 25 June 2026

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