Motorcyclist dies near Buriram checkpoint with 6,000 pills

A 28-year-old motorcyclist died after crashing into a roadside lighting pole near a police checkpoint in Buriram province, where officers later found 6,000 methamphetamine pills in his shoulder bag.

The crash happened on 16 August, about 300 metres from a checkpoint set up by Ban Dan Police on the Buriram-Satuek road. Police believe the rider may have panicked after seeing the checkpoint ahead, although the exact circumstances remain under investigation.

Crash occurred close to police checkpoint

Pol Col Wichan Kracangpho, chief of Ban Dan Police Station, had led officers in establishing the checkpoint on the road as part of a drive against illegal firearms and drugs, in line with government policy.

While officers were on duty, they received a report that a motorcycle had struck a roadside lighting pole outside a tyre shop on the inbound side towards Mueang Buriram district.

Police and Ban Dan Municipality rescue workers went to the scene and found a red Honda Wave motorcycle with front-end damage.

Nearby, in roadside grass, they found the rider, identified only as Khemmathat, 28, unconscious. He was taken urgently to Ban Dan Hospital but later died from his injuries.

Police seize drugs found in shoulder bag

During a search of the dead man's shoulder bag, officers found 6,000 methamphetamine pills, known in Thailand as yaba. The drugs were seized as evidence and police are continuing their investigation to establish any wider links.

A witness said they heard a loud impact and ran outside. The witness believed the rider had been travelling at speed and may have lost control after becoming alarmed on seeing the police checkpoint ahead.

Pol Col Wichan said Buriram Provincial Police would continue setting up checkpoints to intercept illegal items. Members of the public can report information to the 191 emergency hotline, which operates 24 hours a day.

Picture courtesy of Daily News

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17 August 2026

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