PHUKET, Thailand — An American man was arrested at Phuket International Airport on July 16 while attempting to smuggle more than six kilograms of heroin out of Thailand. The arrest was the result of a coordinated operation involving Thai Tourist Police, Customs officials, and the Narcotics Suppression Bureau.
The suspect, 61-year-old Tyler Trong Luong, was detained as he prepared to board a flight bound for Doha, Qatar, with onward connections to Brussels and France. Authorities said Luong had hidden approximately 6.6 kilograms of heroin inside ten boxes of Coffee Mate powdered creamer packed in his checked luggage.
The arrest followed a tip-off from international law enforcement agencies. Acting on this information, Police Lieutenant General Saksira Pueak-am, Commander of the Tourist Police, launched an investigation. Officers from Tourist Police Divisions 2 and 3, along with Customs and anti-narcotics units, monitored Luong’s movements between July 14 and 16.
As Luong checked in for his flight, officers intervened. An X-ray scan of his luggage revealed irregularities, prompting a search. The heroin was discovered tightly wrapped in yellow tape and concealed within the powdered creamer containers.
During questioning, Luong reportedly told police he was unaware of the drug shipment and claimed he was simply transporting the bag as a favor for a French acquaintance.
Authorities are now expanding the investigation to determine whether Luong acted alone or as part of a larger drug trafficking network. He is expected to face multiple charges under Thailand’s strict narcotics laws.
Thailand enforces some of the harshest drug laws in the world. Possession, trafficking, or smuggling of illicit drugs can lead to severe penalties, including long prison terms or even the death penalty in cases involving large quantities.
The case has attracted significant attention and serves as a reminder to international travelers about the serious consequences of drug-related offenses in the country.
