Phuket, Thailand – More than six kilograms of heroin hidden in traditional Thai clothing were discovered during a police operation in Phuket. The drugs were destined to be sent abroad via a courier service, with Australia as the final target. Investigators are now preparing arrest warrants.
Packages from Loei at Phuket Airport
Wichit Police reported that the packages originated from Loei province and were addressed to a housing estate near Phuket Airport. A private courier service had shipped them. Inside the parcels were two sacks containing 48 sets of pre-made traditional Thai garments. Officers found 6.198 kilograms of heroin hidden within the clothing.
Heroin Hidden in Clothing
The drugs were discovered on April 30. Authorities described the incident as a thwarted smuggling attempt abroad. The heroin was concealed in traditional Thai clothing to make the shipment appear inconspicuous.
Target Was Australia
Investigators stated that smugglers intended to hire couriers to transport the heroin to Australia, where the street value could reach ten times the domestic price. In Thailand, the drug’s value was estimated at 300,000 to 500,000 baht per kilogram. In Australia, the price could climb into the millions.
Fingerprints and Arrest Warrants
Forensic teams are collecting latent fingerprints from the garments and packaging to identify suspects. Police confirmed that evidence will be presented to the court to obtain arrest warrants for those involved. The case will proceed under Thai law.