BANGKOK — A prominent Thai celebrity doctor and former police officer known as “Dr. Air” has been arrested for running a sophisticated drug trafficking network involving date rape drugs, authorities confirmed Wednesday.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Anchuli Theerawongpaisal, 46, was among seven individuals arrested on June 10, 2025, following a probe by Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Narcotics Suppression Division. She is accused of illegally distributing controlled substances, including Flunitrazepam, widely known for its misuse in sexual assault cases.
Authorities revealed that Dr. Air used the names of 12 Bangkok clinics to purchase enormous quantities of prescription drugs. Financial and pharmaceutical records show her illegal drug purchases escalated each year—from 1 million baht in 2022 to nearly 8 million baht in the first half of 2025.
Investigators also discovered 80 million baht in related financial transactions and a shocking scheme in which 370 deceased individuals’ identities were used to falsify prescriptions and obtain drugs.
“The scale and planning involved in this case are unprecedented,” said Police Major General Nopasit Mitrapakdee.
Seven Arrested in Criminal Drug Network
The arrests included:
Pol. Lt. Col. Anchuli Theerawongpaisal – Operation leader
Duriyalak Upchai – Drug guard and distributor
Nattapat Thirachot, Pakorn Chantep, Orachun Chantanam – Area distributors
Patchara and Patcharamon – Caught with drugs in Nakhon Pathom
Authorities seized 170,400 pills of controlled substances, including Alprazolam, Zolpidem, Flunitrazepam, Clonazepam, and Clorazepate. All suspects are facing serious charges of conspiracy to distribute Category 2 drugs and illegal possession for commercial purposes.
A Dramatic Fall from Grace
Dr. Air previously held a reputable position as deputy spokesperson for the National Police Office and was known for her work in child and adolescent mental health at Police Hospital. She also ran a private dermatology clinic, The Air Clinic.
However, her public image had already been marred by previous controversies, including defamation allegations in 2017 and controversial citizenship advice in 2019.
Now facing dismissal from government service, her case underscores widespread concerns over abuse of medical authority and prescription drug misuse in Thailand.
The Medical Council of Thailand has been urged to take disciplinary action, while the National Police Commissioner is expediting her removal from public office.
