In a major drug bust in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, two suspects were arrested on January 12, 2025, after police discovered over 78 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine hidden beneath a staircase at a residence in Bang Khaem, Mueang district.
The drug raid was led by Police Major General Chomchawin Purathananon and Police Colonel Phongsakorn Uppapong, with support from other local officials. The operation resulted in the seizure of 78.98 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, stored in various packages, including green tea bags, black bags, suitcases, and plastic boxes.
Along with the drugs, police also seized two mobile phones, a .32 caliber revolver, and six rounds of ammunition. The drugs were intended for distribution, and both suspects, 31-year-old Chaiwat and 25-year-old Sitthichai, were arrested during the operation.
The investigation stemmed from a tip-off that Chaiwat was involved in transporting drugs from a northern Thai network. Surveillance revealed that Chaiwat was storing the drugs in his residence, awaiting further delivery instructions from the drug owner. During questioning, Chaiwat confessed to smuggling the drugs and claimed to have been contacted by a person named “Golf” through Facebook to collect and store the drugs.
Chaiwat also admitted to possessing the firearm, stating he was promised 40,000 baht for his role in the drug operation but only received 5,000 baht. Sitthichai, who identified himself as the homeowner during the raid, denied any knowledge of the drugs, claiming he had rented the house only two months prior and was unaware of the illegal activity.
Both suspects were taken for drug testing, which returned negative results. Chaiwat now faces charges of possessing crystal methamphetamine for distribution, illegal firearm possession, and illegal ammunition possession, while Sitthichai faces similar charges related to drug possession. Police intend to continue investigating the case to target larger drug suppliers and dismantle the trafficking network.
Key Details:
Suspects: Chaiwat (31), Sitthichai (25) arrested in Nakhon Pathom
Drugs Seized: 78.98 kg of crystal methamphetamine
Weapon Seized: .32 caliber revolver, six rounds of ammunition
Location: Bang Khaem, Mueang District, Nakhon Pathom
Investigation: Tied to a northern Thai drug network and Facebook contact named Golf
Outcome: Chaiwat confesses, Sitthichai denies involvement, both remain in custody.
