Two suspects arrested in Phuket for drug trafficking and illegal possession of weapons

Phuket police reported two drug-related arrests made on the same day, May 27, but in different areas of the island. The operations resulted in the seizure of methamphetamine tablets and crystals, three firearms, and ammunition. The first arrest was carried out by Kathu police officers on the evening of May 27. Law enforcement acted on the basis of a court order. The arrested individual is identified in the public report only by the nickname Panda. Seized from him were 118 methamphetamine tablets, two homemade modified pistols chambered for .380 and 9mm cartridges, and over 40 rounds of ammunition of various calibers, including shotgun shells used in single-shot homemade "Thai Pradit" weapons. The second arrest was made on the evening of May 27 at the Tha Chatchai police checkpoint at the entrance to Phuket from the mainland. Police officers discovered drugs and a weapon on a native of Krabi province who was heading to the island. Seized were 128 methamphetamine tablets, just under 1 g of crystal methamphetamine, a pistol, and five .22 caliber rounds for it. Some of the drugs were hidden in the man's underwear. Both suspects have been charged with illegal possession of Category 1 narcotics with intent to sell, as well as illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.