Vigilant Courier Leads Police to Massive Drug Bust Near Bangkok
Pathum Thani, March 10, 2025 – A routine delivery turned into a major drug bust after a sharp-eyed courier raised suspicions about an unusual request, leading police to seize 520 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine hidden inside industrial freezers.
According to Pol Lt Gen Yutthana Jonkhun, commander of the Pathum Thani Provincial Police, the discovery unfolded when a truck driver was hired to transport two freezers from a warehouse in Lam Luk Ka district to a post office in Rangae district, Narathiwat.
Suspicious Behavior Raises Alarm
The driver became wary when the client scheduled the pickup for 4:00 AM—an odd hour for such a delivery. Upon arrival, he was met by two men dressed in baggy trousers, long-sleeved shirts, gloves, face masks, and caps, who forbade him from taking photos of the goods.
As he loaded the freezers, he noticed the clients avoided touching them entirely. They also paid 38,000 baht in cash, a rare practice, as his transportation company typically requires bank transfers.
Adding to his suspicion, the clients insisted that the cargo be completely covered with a tarpaulin. Shortly after departing, the driver attempted to contact them via Line, but his calls went unanswered.
Police Uncover Hidden Drugs
Concerned, the driver diverted to Lam Luk Ka Police Station to seek assistance. Upon inspection, officers discovered 200 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine hidden inside the freezers. The drugs were concealed in tea bags, each weighing about one kilogram, and packed inside 10 fertilizer sacks.
Following this revelation, police expanded their search to the warehouse where the freezers were picked up. There, they uncovered an additional 320 kilograms of crystal meth, bringing the total seizure to 520 kilograms.
Street Value and Investigation
Authorities estimate the street value of the confiscated drugs at approximately 104 million baht. Police are now working to track down those responsible for the smuggling operation.
This case highlights the crucial role that vigilance and quick thinking can play in disrupting major drug trafficking networks.