Bangkok police arrested seven foreign nationals and one Thai woman during a late-night Bangkok drug raid in the Nana area, a nightlife zone popular with tourists. Officers uncovered a drug-dealing operation hidden behind a barbershop, part of ongoing efforts to clean up entertainment districts.
Crackdown Targets Nana’s Nightlife Hotspots
The operation took place on October 15 following orders from National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet to intensify inspections in tourist zones. Undercover Metropolitan Police officers posed as tourists in Sukhumvit Soi 3, near Nana, a well-known nightlife district frequented by expatriates and visitors.
Two foreign men approached the officers and offered drugs, leading them to a five-story commercial building. On the top floor, officers found a barbershop run by Arab nationals with a hidden room used for drug sales and use.
Eight Arrests and Drugs Seized in Bangkok Drug Raid
Police seized methamphetamine tablets priced at 2,000 baht each. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Pol. Lt. Gen. Siam Boonsom ordered a full raid around 11 p.m., resulting in eight arrests.
Two suspects, Mr. Khalil, 41, from Egypt, and Mr. Maw, 22, from Myanmar, face major drug charges for possession and distribution of methamphetamine, a Category 1 narcotic under Thai law, and possession of Category 5 drugs.
Other suspects face various offenses:
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Mr. Ahmad, 30, from Pakistan, charged with working without a permit and performing a prohibited occupation (barbering).
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Mr. Khadimi, 21, from Afghanistan; Mr. Salwa, 25, from Iraq; and Ms. Ohn Htee, 40, from Myanmar, charged with illegal entry.
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Mr. Yasir, 30, from Pakistan, charged with concealing and trading in prohibited goods.
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Mrs. Chalongkwan, 50, a Thai national, charged with distributing narcotics, employing illegal workers, and selling untaxed imported goods.
Police confiscated multiple drugs including methamphetamine, ecstasy, cocaine, and “magic mushrooms,” along with untaxed cigarettes and 125,000 baht in cash.
Authorities Strengthen Anti-Drug Operations
During questioning, several suspects denied the charges. Mr. Khadimi said he worked as a tout for Mrs. Chalongkwan and a man named “Yasim,” claiming he only brought customers to the site. Mrs. Chalongkwan said she operated a legal cannabis business and denied involvement in drug trafficking.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Teeradej Thammasuthee, Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, said the group functioned as an organized network. He added that their activities had intimidated tourists and harmed Bangkok’s reputation.
Conclusion:
Police said the Bangkok drug raid reflects broader efforts to improve safety in the city’s nightlife districts. More undercover operations are planned in entertainment areas to protect both residents and visitors.
