Singaporean Fugitive Arrested in Bangkok Over Alleged Poison Plot

Singaporean Fugitive Arrested in Bangkok Over Alleged Poison Plot

Bangkok police arrested 40-year-old Singaporean Joel Ong Seng Yong at a condominium in Bang Khae following a months-long investigation triggered by a tip about his activities in Thailand. Officers said they discovered crystal methamphetamine, cash, several chemicals, two detonator devices and phones containing evidence of alleged dark-web purchases of highly toxic substances. Investigators also found messages allegedly discussing putting poison into a water tank and said the quantities ordered could theoretically have killed many people if used as described. Police stressed that they had not found evidence of terrorism, while experts said the chemicals actually recovered were insufficient to create a lethal bomb. Ong, who was wanted in Singapore and had allegedly overstayed in Thailand, reportedly told investigators that the poisons were intended for himself.