BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thai narcotics officials arrested two Japanese nationals in a coordinated international operation targeting a suspected Yakuza drug ring.
Cross-border operation targets Yakuza-linked network
Between 22 and 23 November, Thai and Japanese officers carried out simultaneous actions against an alleged international drug ring operating out of Thailand. Investigations had indicated that a Yakuza group smuggled narcotics to South Korea, where they were distributed to small-scale dealers and users.
“The gang had links to Japanese drug dealers in Thailand,”
said an ONCB spokesperson, adding that inquiries had been underway since June.
Two Japanese suspects detained in Bangkok
On 22 November, officers arrested the first suspect outside a hotel in Bangkok’s Laksi district. Later the same day, they detained the second man at a luxury condominium on Rama III Road. Both suspects were Japanese citizens and were believed to have played a key role in the international drug trade, with activities spanning tourist hubs including Bangkok, Chon Buri and Phuket.
Assets worth two million baht frozen
A day after the arrests, investigators searched the suspects’ residence in Chon Buri. No drugs were found, but officers reported seizing substantial evidence. Authorities froze 19 assets with an estimated value of two million baht (around 50,000 euros), including cars, motorcycles, laptops, tablets, bank books and cash in yen and baht.
South Korean accomplice on the run
Background checks and international inquiries confirmed links to a South Korean accomplice. The man was suspected of handling financial connections for the group and of playing an important role in the drug operations. He remained at large, and an international arrest warrant had already been requested.
Thailand steps up fight against drug gangs
ONCB Secretary-General Suriya Singhakamon underlined the importance of cross-border cooperation, describing the operation as a significant step against international crime.
“We will continue investigations and asset seizures to ensure that such groups cannot use Thailand as a base for illegal activities,”
said the ONCB chief. Authorities stressed that the message to international drug gangs was clear: Thailand was not a safe haven for criminal business.