Chiang rai: Chiang Rai officials have seized an astounding 5 million methamphetamine pills, marking a significant breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking in the region. Deputy Governor Prasert Jitpleecheep revealed that the drug trafficking network had strategically prepared vehicles to hinder investigative efforts.

According to Thai News Agency, a press conference was convened by Mr. Prasert Jitpleecheep, Deputy Governor of Chiang Rai Province, alongside administrative officials, military personnel, police, and related agencies. The announcement highlighted the successful outcome of a coordinated operation aimed at dismantling drug trafficking activities.

The operation, carried out by a special unit from the Mae Fa Luang District Administration in partnership with soldiers from the Pha Muang Task Force, Border Patrol Police, and anti-narcotics agencies, focused on a border road near Ban Pha Bue, Mae Fa Luang Subdistrict. During the patrol, officers identified a suspicious pickup truck. However, the situation escalated when the driver opted to flee, firing shots at the officers, which led to a high-speed chase lasting approximately one kilometer until the vehicle veered off the road.

Upon securing the scene, authorities discovered 25 sacks adapted into backpacks, containing roughly 5,000,000 methamphetamine pills. The illicit substances have been seized and handed over to investigators at Mae Fah Luang Police Station for further legal proceedings.

Efforts are currently underway to accelerate investigations, with a focus on apprehending other members of the criminal network involved in the trafficking operation.