PATTAYA, THAILAND – A blacklisted South Korean tourist was arrested in a Jomtien condominium as immigration officers intensified a crackdown on foreign-linked crime in Chonburi province.
Blacklisted tourist detained in Jomtien condo raid
Officers from the Chonburi Immigration Bureau arrested 46-year-old Kim Jin-jong, a South Korean tourist, during a raid on an upscale condominium in Jomtien. Police said he had previously been reported for hiring prostitutes and hosting drug-fuelled parties at the property. During the operation, officers found him in possession of methamphetamine while he browsed online gambling sites and viewed pornography on a laptop.
Illegal entry and drug use uncovered
Investigators determined that Kim had entered Thailand illegally after earlier being deported and placed on a blacklist. According to immigration police, he was caught consuming crystal methamphetamine, locally known as “Ice”, inside the condominium unit. The raid also revealed his active use of digital platforms for gambling and adult content.
High-ranking officers oversee crackdown
The operation was carried out under the supervision of Pol. Maj. Gen. Songprot Sirisukha, commander of Immigration Bureau 3. Pol. Col. Naphasapong Kositsuriyamanee, superintendent of Chonburi Immigration, and Pol. Lt. Col. Kawinwat Arayasuriwong, deputy superintendent, oversaw enforcement on site, while Pol. Lt. Col. Jarit Raosathian coordinated the raid. Officials said the measures were part of broader efforts to maintain security and confidence for tourists in Pattaya.
Suspect admits buying meth from a friend
Kim was taken to Pattaya Immigration Headquarters for questioning following his arrest. During interrogation, he admitted purchasing the methamphetamine from a friend for 4,000 baht, equivalent to about €104. He told officers the drugs were intended for personal use and entertainment.
Multiple charges and seized digital evidence
Authorities stated that Kim faced several charges, including illegal entry, possession of narcotics and recruitment of escorts. He remained in custody while investigators continued legal proceedings and examined devices and financial records seized in the raid. Police confirmed that he had arranged for young women to come to the condominium to participate in drug use, saying the agreement covered both entertainment and narcotics.
Focus on foreign offenders in tourist areas
Officials from Chonburi Immigration stressed that arrests like Kim’s formed part of an ongoing crackdown. They noted that foreigners committing offences in Pattaya’s tourist districts were a law-enforcement priority. As a result, officers were instructed to speed up investigations and strengthen public safety in popular areas.
Blacklist status and signs of deliberate planning
Authorities underlined that the suspect’s previous blacklist status showed earlier immigration violations, prompting heightened scrutiny of his case. Legal proceedings had been initiated and Kim was expected to face formal charges. Investigators also said the luxury condominium setting indicated deliberate planning behind the alleged activities.
Digital activity central to investigation
Police reported that the raid uncovered a mix of drug paraphernalia, cash transactions and online activity linked to gambling and pornography. They said these findings provided clear evidence of unlawful behaviour connected to the condominium. Officers confirmed that Kim’s laptop, used for pornography and online gambling, was central to ongoing investigations as communications were analysed to identify any potential accomplices.