PATTAYA, THAILAND – Police in the Nongprue subdistrict dismantled a suspected drug ring involving four people, seizing more than 600 grams of crystal meth, a firearm and two vehicles.
Undercover operation in Banglamung
Police said the operation was led by Pol. Col. Natthaphon Phongsukskul, head of Nongprue Police Station, and took place on Friday, 19 December 2025, following a targeted undercover mission in Banglamung district, Chonburi province. Investigators had arranged a staged drug deal and set up a meeting in Soi Ban Lang 15, Moo 7, where officers stopped a white Mitsubishi Pajero carrying three suspects. A search of the vehicle uncovered hidden crystal methamphetamine.
“The operation was based on undercover investigations and a staged purchase attempt.”
said Pol. Col. Natthaphon.
Four arrests and major drug seizure
A total of four people were arrested and placed under investigation on suspicion of drug trafficking. Officers said they seized 505.45 grams of crystal meth, a 9mm pistol, 12 rounds of ammunition and a red Mazda from Mr. Phaibun “Beer” Thatharai (41).
The three other suspects were identified as Mr. Thanu “Keng/Kings” Yingharn (40), Ms. Wasana “New” Chitsanti (42) and Mr. Suphakrit “Can” Saengchan (31). According to police, the latter three had 113.33 grams of crystal meth in their possession and were using the white Mitsubishi Pajero.
Trail leads to alleged key figure “Beer”
Following initial questioning, investigators quickly traced the case back to “Beer,” who was arrested in a bar in Moo 2, Nongprue. Additional evidence was seized at that location.
A senior officer described the operation as a significant blow to a local drug trafficking structure.
“This success helps to curb the spread of narcotics in the community.”
said the senior officer.
Origins of the investigation and network links
Police said the action stemmed from investigations that began on 17 December, after several minor users and street-level dealers had been arrested in the Nongprue area. Their statements pointed to a distribution network that allegedly brought drugs from Nonthaburi province into Banglamung district for resale.
According to the authorities, the four suspects were believed to be part of this local network based on the information gathered so far.
Ongoing legal proceedings and wider crackdown
All four accused were transferred to Nongprue Police Station, where specialized investigators continued the interrogations and prepared drug trafficking charges. Police stressed that the case formed part of a broader campaign against narcotics crime in the region.
Officers said particular attention was being paid to firearms found in connection with drugs, as such combinations posed an increased risk of violence. According to the authorities, investigations into further possible participants and those behind the network were ongoing.