PATTAYA, THAILAND – A previously deported Korean man was arrested in Pattaya after allegedly re-entering Thailand illegally and being found with crystal meth in a condominium.
Tip-off leads to condominium raid
The immigration police in Chon Buri received a specific tip about drug use in a condominium in Bang Lamung district. Under the command of Colonel Napaspong Khositsuriymani, officers searched the apartment and encountered a 46-year-old Korean national identified as Mr. Kim. During the search, police found drug paraphernalia and 3.79 grams of crystal meth in four transparent plastic bags, as well as a small digital scale.
Illegal border crossing via natural route
Investigations showed that Kim had not entered Thailand through official channels.
“He had entered illegally via the natural border crossing near the Poipet market in Sa Kaeo province,”
said police. He had been living unlawfully in Pattaya for two years, despite being on the national blacklist.
Prior drug offences and deportation
The Korean suspect was already known to Thai authorities for earlier drug offences. He had previously been arrested and deported, which placed him on the blacklist and barred him from re-entering Thailand. As an explanation, he told officers:
“I have a Thai wife and a child whom I have to support.”
said the suspect. A drug test on Kim nevertheless returned a positive result.
Multiple charges and legal proceedings
The 46-year-old now faced several serious charges. Allegations included possession of Category 1 narcotics (crystal meth), drug use, and illegal entry and stay in the kingdom. The arrested man was transferred to Pattaya City Police Station, where criminal proceedings were initiated.
Authorities target repeat foreign offenders
The case reflected a pattern in which previously convicted foreign nationals attempted to return to Thailand despite entry bans. Many of them reportedly hid in tourist hubs such as Pattaya and were again implicated in drug-related offences. In response, Thai authorities had tightened controls, particularly in regions with a high proportion of foreign residents.