Mae sai: Drugs valued at nearly 80 million baht were intercepted at a Mae Sai checkpoint, where smugglers attempted to conceal illicit substances using empty plastic baskets. Customs officials, working in collaboration with various sectors, successfully seized 600,000 methamphetamine pills and over 111 kilograms of ketamine, aligning with government policies to prevent Thailand from being used as a transit route for narcotics.
According to Thai News Agency, the Customs Department is actively pursuing a crackdown on narcotics in line with government directives, collaborating with security and law enforcement agencies to thwart cross-border drug trafficking. The recent operation resulted in the capture of 600,000 methamphetamine pills and 111.815 kilograms of ketamine, with an estimated total value of approximately 74.726 million baht. The department has reiterated its dedication to preventing Thailand from becoming a hub for drug transit.
Mr. Panthong Loykulnan, Director-General of the Customs Department, stated that under the guidance of Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, drug prevention and suppression have been prioritized on the national agenda. The Customs Department has been tasked with fostering cooperation with relevant agencies to rigorously enforce laws and enhance drug interdiction efforts at various checkpoints to protect public safety and national security.
In a joint operation on July 5, 2026, several agencies, including the Mae Sai Customs House, Customs Region 3, and other military and police forces, inspected a small three-wheeled taxi with Myanmar license plates. The vehicle, driven by a Myanmar national, was found to contain a plastic fruit basket with hidden packages. Inside, 600,000 methamphetamine pills were discovered, valued at approximately 30,000,000 baht. Additionally, 111.815 kilograms of ketamine, concealed in tea bags, were found, with an estimated value of 44,726,000 baht. The total value of the seized drugs is about 74,726,000 baht.
The suspect admitted to being hired to transport the contraband to a recipient in Thailand, where another vehicle was expected to continue its journey. The authorities charged the individual with violations under the Customs Act and the Narcotics Code and proceeded with legal action.
The Director-General emphasized the department's commitment to enhancing surveillance and interdiction efforts through integrated intelligence, technology, and cooperation with both domestic and international agencies. He also highlighted the dangers of ketamine misuse, which poses serious health risks and urged public vigilance in monitoring youth to prevent drug abuse.
The Customs Department continues to combat narcotics trafficking and calls on the public and parents to actively supervise children, as drugs are becoming more accessible. Awareness and family involvement are crucial in safeguarding the future of the nation's youth.