BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thai police dismantled an alleged cocaine smuggling ring in Bangkok, arresting a 47-year-old Nigerian man and several other suspects and seizing drugs, a vehicle and cash worth millions in various currencies.
Arrest in Bang Rak after surveillance
Police arrested a 47-year-old Nigerian man in Bangkok’s Bang Rak district in the evening, describing him as the alleged mastermind of a cocaine trafficking network. Officers had monitored his movements during the night of 19 April and intervened after observing a suspected drug handover at around 11 p.m.
Video shows arrest by minivan
Later video footage released by Thai police showed officers running towards the suspect as he attempted to get into a black minivan. According to the authorities, the man was stopped and detained at the vehicle and was identified only as “Patrick”.
Search uncovers cocaine and 2.4 million baht in bathroom
During an extensive search of his room, investigators seized cocaine and about 2.4 million baht in cash. Police said the money had been hidden in the ceiling of the bathroom.
Charges and long-term stay in Thailand
Multiple charges were brought against the Nigerian suspect, including possession of cocaine with intent to sell. According to police, the man had lived in Thailand for more than 17 years and had a Thai wife, whom authorities described as being part of a sham marriage.
Emotional reaction and initial confession
Police stated that after his arrest, the suspect broke down in tears, asked to be allowed to return home and said he was afraid of dying in a Thai prison. In his first statement, he reportedly admitted the allegations and said he was shocked to have been caught after such a long time.
Explanation for cash: from Nigeria, stored “for safekeeping”
According to police, the man also said he had not expected officers to find the money in the ceiling. He told them the cash had come from Nigeria and had been placed there “for safekeeping”, not to hide it.
Further raids: Swiss man and two Thais arrested
In separate operations linked to the same network, police arrested three more suspects, including a 60-year-old Swiss national named “Thomas” in Nonthaburi province. Authorities said 0.87 grams of cocaine were seized from him.
Arrests near Rama III and overall seizures
Two Thai nationals, “Yot” (35) and “Nat” (34), were detained in the Rama III area of Bangkok. Overall, authorities reported seizing around 30 grams of cocaine, a vehicle and cash worth millions in various currencies.