Bueng kan: Police successfully intercepted a pickup truck carrying over 2 million methamphetamine pills as it attempted to flee from a checkpoint along the Mekong River. The operation, conducted by the Surasakmontri Task Force in cooperation with several police units, led to the arrest of one suspect, while investigations continue to dismantle the narcotics network involved.
According to Thai News Agency, the operation was a coordinated effort under the direction of the Royal Thai Army involving the 2nd Army Area Command, the Northeastern Border Narcotics Suppression and Interdiction Command, and other specialized units. They focused on monitoring narcotics smuggling along the Mekong River border in Bueng Kan Province, following intelligence on drug trafficking activities in specific subdistricts.
Authorities had received a tip-off about drug smuggling activities in the areas of Kok Kong Subdistrict, Mueang Bueng Kan District, and Nong Doen Subdistrict, Bung Khla District. This led to a strategic deployment of personnel and the use of night vision cameras to surveil the riverbank and inspect vehicles moving in and out of the area.
Around 8:00 PM, officers noticed a suspicious boat crossing from Laos and a silver Toyota Vigo pickup truck with license plate BB 452 Saraburi entering Huai Lep Mue village. As officers approached to conduct a search, the driver attempted to flee. A pursuit ensued, and the vehicle was intercepted on Highway 222 at approximately 8:40 PM.
Upon searching the truck, officers discovered five sacks containing approximately 2 million methamphetamine pills, classified as a Category 1 narcotic. The suspect, 59-year-old Mr. Phet Phassadorn from Ban Phue District, Udon Thani Province, was apprehended.
The seized items were taken to the 2108 Special Task Force Ranger Company for counting and will be handed over to the Bueng Kan City Police Station for further legal proceedings under the Narcotics Act. Authorities are intensifying the investigation to uncover further links within the criminal network.