Bueng kan: Border patrol soldiers arrested a Lao national and seized a large quantity of crystal methamphetamine (ice) weighing 249 kg along the Mekong River.
According to Thai News Agency, the Northeastern Border Narcotics, Precursor and Chemical Interdiction Command (NB.YS.24) reported that yesterday at approximately 6:00 PM, the Royal Thai Army's 2nd Army Area and NB.YS.24 received intelligence about an impending narcotics smuggling operation in Ban Phu Suwat, Nong Doen Subdistrict, Bung Khla District.
The Surasakmontri Task Force, alongside the Upper Interdiction Unit and the 2nd Control Command, coordinated with local agencies to set up an ambush. At around 8:00 PM, officials noticed a small boat moving from the Lao side towards the Thai side of the Mekong River. Individuals on the boat were seen unloading suspicious sacks. Upon identifying themselves, the officials attempted to inspect the group, but the individuals fled into the darkness. Officials managed to apprehend one person during the pursuit.
In the surrounding area, authorities discovered eight sacks containing a Category 1 narcotic, methamphetamine, weighing a total of 249 kilograms. The suspect was identified as Thao Tom Saesangbong, 24, from Bolikhamxai Province, Laos. He, along with the seized items, was taken to the 2108th Special Forces Company for a detailed count before being handed over to the investigating officers at Bung Khla Police Station for legal proceedings.
Officials suspect the drug shipment was part of a transnational drug trafficking operation using the Mekong River to smuggle drugs into Thailand, primarily at night to avoid detection. The operation successfully intercepted the drugs before distribution inland.