Pathum thani: The Provincial Police Region 1 Commander has mandated a thorough investigation into a drug trafficking network that successfully bypassed a police checkpoint, leaving behind 15 sacks containing 432 kg of ketamine, with an estimated value of 120 million baht. The vehicle's owner is known for previous involvement with a drug network linked to Laos, specifically smuggling drugs from the Nong Khai border. Ongoing surveillance has been directed.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Gen. Wattana Yijin, Commander of Provincial Police Region 1, disclosed advancements in the investigation of a pickup truck that circumvented police efforts at Pratu Nam Chulalongkorn Police Station, later being found abandoned near the Rangsit Canal in Thanyaburi District. The investigative team is actively searching for the driver who fled the scene. The pickup truck bore a counterfeit license plate, and the owner's background shows ties to drug trafficking operations along the Thai-Lao border in Nong Khai Province. It is believed this network is responsible for smuggling drugs into Thailand for distribution in central Bangkok.
The search of the abandoned vehicle resulted in the discovery of 15 sacks of ketamine, weighing a total of 432 kg, valued at more than 120 million baht. Authorities have called for a swift investigation, including an analysis of CCTV footage from the drug trafficking route. The aim is to ascertain whether the pickup truck was the sole vehicle used or if additional drugs were smuggled into the country through other means.
Since the start of the year, there has been a noticeable uptick in drug trafficking through the central region, targeting the south and ultimately Bangkok. Police Region 1 has already executed 2-3 significant arrests related to these activities. Intelligence reports suggest drugs are being smuggled through the northeastern border, prompting police to maintain vigilant oversight.