Nakhon phanom: Combined forces intercepted and arrested two suspects smuggling nearly half a ton of ice. NB.Y.S. 24, in conjunction with the Narcotics Suppression Division, intercepted two suspects who were smuggling nearly half a ton of crystal methamphetamine from a neighboring country before distributing it in the inner region.
According to Thai News Agency, the 2nd Army Region, led by Lt. Gen. Wirayut Raksilp, Commander of the 2nd Army Region and Commander of the Northeast Border Narcotics, Precursor and Chemicals Interdiction and Suppression Command (NB.YS.24), has expedited the arrest and expansion of drug seizures, in accordance with the policy of the government, the Minister of Defense, the Deputy Minister of Defense, and the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army (C-in-C). Officers from all sectors have integrated in drug suppression efforts, focusing on pressuring and arresting drug dealers and users.
The operation was executed by the Surasakmontri Task Force/Upper Interception/1st Control Division (3rd Regiment), Border Patrol Police Task Force 236 (main agency), integrated with the 3rd Border Patrol Police Regiment, Surasakmontri Task Force, and local security units. They intercepted and arrested the drug suspects at Ban Ramrat, Tambon Ramrat, Tha Uthen District, Nakhon Phanom Province. The suspects’ identities were subsequently confirmed.
The suspects, Mr. Alongkorn Tharaphan, age 29, from Mueang Sakon Nakhon District, Sakon Nakhon Province, and Mr. Natthaphong Chuaypun, age 22, from Phon Sawan District, Nakhon Phanom Province, were found with evidence of Category 1 narcotics (ice). The drugs, totaling 10 sacks and weighing approximately 490 kilograms, were hidden in the back of a black Toyota pickup truck with registration number 1?? 1610 Bangkok.
During questioning, the suspects confessed to transporting the drugs from a neighboring country with the intent to distribute them in the inner region. Authorities charged them with joint possession of Category 1 narcotics (ice) with intent to distribute, an action considered for commercial purposes that impacts national security and the safety of the general public.