BANGKOK, Jan 28 – Thai authorities in joint operation on Saturday detained 10 suspected drug dealers with 400,000 methamphetamine pills and 24 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as “ice,” with a street value of Bt200 million in the capital.
Suradech Saelee, Alu Saelee, Ater Saehuang, Ekkapoj Saejang and other members of the suspected drug syndicate were arrested at a restaurant in Soi Ramkhamhaeng 24/3, Bang Kapi district by combined forces of police and officials of the Narcotics Suppression Bureau, the Department of Special Investigation and the Metropolitan Police Bureau.
The detention came after police were informed that a large lot of illicit drugs would be smuggled by the drug ring based in the northern region into Bangkok for sale to customers.
Following the tip-off, authorities pretended to buy the crystal meth, worth Bt40 million, from Mr Alu and had an appointment with him at a hypermarket store before arresting him.
Then, Mr Alu was ordered to call other members of the alleged drug syndicate at the restaurant, asking them to deliver 24 kilogrammes of crystal meth at Rajamangala Stadium before the officials rushed to inspect the restaurant where the illicit drugs were believed to be hidden.
According to the inspection, the officials found four suspects and 400,000 speed pills contained in a blue plastic box.
Meanwhile, the authorities have followed up the investigation for further arrests of the drug ring in Thailand’s northern region where detainees claimed that they received the drugs.
Initially, the suspects were charged with possession of illicit drugs with intent to sell and for sales of illicit drugs.
