Bangkok: Thai police and the Narcotics Suppression Bureau have successfully arrested "Nu Chen," a significant drug dealer, who went into hiding in South Korea. He will now face prosecution in Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, the Royal Thai Police, in collaboration with the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), captured "Nu Chen," a major drug dealer and mastermind, after he fled to South Korea. The suspect, identified as Mr. Thapanan, or "Nu Chen," had more than 60 outstanding arrest warrants.
Yesterday, Pol. Lt. Gen. Ruttapon Naowarat, Minister of Justice, led a press conference at the Narcotics Suppression Bureau headquarters to announce the arrest. The event was attended by key figures including Pol. Col. Suriya Singhakamol, Secretary-General of the ONCB, and Pol. Gen. Samran Nualma, Deputy Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police.
The Royal Thai Police coordinated with the Republic of Korea to capture Mr. Thapanan for extradition to South Korea, where he will face legal proceedings. Further investigations aim to dismantle other related drug trafficking networks.
Mr. Thapanan, also known as Mr. Athithan, entered the drug trade initially as a user before becoming a small-scale dealer. He eventually established a network with ethnic groups to set up a drug manufacturing plant, becoming a key figure in importing drugs into Thailand.
His criminal activities are linked to several major drug cases. In 2009, he was arrested with 26,000 methamphetamine pills in Samut Prakan province but fled during the appeal process. In 2012, he was involved in the arrest of Nipon's network, leading to the seizure of over 3.8 million methamphetamine pills and 71 kilograms of crystal meth. That same year, he was linked to another case involving 1.6 million methamphetamine pills and 36 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine.
In 2017, Mr. Thapanan's network was involved in seizing over 10.3 million methamphetamine pills in Bang Phli District. In 2019, he was connected to the transportation of 1.5 tons of crystal methamphetamine hidden in a trailer truck in Mae Sot District.
In late 2022, Mr. Thapanan cleverly deceived authorities by faking his death, claiming his body was dumped in the Moei River. However, investigations revealed that he remained active in a neighboring country. The Immigration Bureau continuously monitored his movements, eventually tracking him to South Korea.
Police Lieutenant General Ruddhaphol Naowarat stated that this operation signifies a major success in international cooperation against drug trafficking. The government plans to continue expanding investigations to dismantle drug networks.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Suriya Singhakamol thanked all agencies involved, emphasizing that the operation's success is due to persistent efforts by officials both domestically and internationally.
Pol. Gen. Samran Nualma highlighted the Royal Thai Police's commitment to addressing drug-related issues systematically. He stressed the importance of inter-agency cooperation in combating drug smuggling.
The Royal Thai Police urges the public to report any drug-related activities to hotlines 1599 or 191. All information provided will be kept confidential.