BANGKOK, THAILAND – Police in the Sukhumvit nightlife district detained a 64-year-old British man who allegedly sold cocaine to tourists.
Raid on Sukhumvit 13 late at night
Officers arrested Phillip Thomas Lingwood at about 10:30 p.m. on 6 March on Sukhumvit 13 Road in Bangkok’s Watthana district. The operation followed a tip-off that prompted police to set up surveillance in the area.
According to police, officers observed Lingwood leaving a building carrying a black and green paper bag. They moved in to search him after monitoring his movements in the busy street.
Cocaine chunk and ecstasy found on suspect
During the search, police found a 400‑gram chunk of cocaine inside the paper bag, which he was allegedly carrying concealed. Investigators said the quantity indicated more than simple personal use.
Officers also discovered 19 grams of cocaine in a cylindrical container in his right trouser pocket. A similar container in his left pocket held two grams of ecstasy powder, according to the police report.
Police describe suspect as key supplier
Investigators described Lingwood as an important distributor in an area frequented by large numbers of tourists. They said the arrest targeted supply chains serving visitors in the Sukhumvit entertainment zone.
The operation was led by Police Major General Worawit Yanachinda together with Police Colonel Ekaphop Likhittanasombat and other officers. Police said the team had coordinated closely before moving in on the suspect.
Admission and missing passport
During questioning, Lingwood admitted, according to police, that the drugs belonged to him and were intended to be handed over to customers.
“The drugs were mine and were meant for delivery to clients,”
said Lingwood, according to police statements.
When officers asked for identification, he was unable to produce a passport, police said. Authorities then proceeded with further checks on his immigration status.
20th-floor apartment search uncovers more drugs
Police extended the operation to his residence in the same area and searched an apartment on the 20th floor. Inside, investigators found 1.5 grams of crystal methamphetamine and additional ecstasy, according to the report.
Officers also seized digital scales and packaging bags believed to be used for preparing drugs for sale. The items were taken as evidence to support trafficking-related charges.
Charges and handover to Lumphini investigators
The British national faced accusations including possession of cocaine for commercial purposes without permission. He was also charged with possession of ecstasy and crystal methamphetamine without permission, as well as illegal drug use.
Police added a further allegation of unlawful entry into Thailand. The man was then handed over to investigators at Lumphini Police Station for further legal proceedings, local outlet KhaoSod reported.