100 Million Baht in Crystal Meth Seized on Mekong Border

NONG KHAI — 29 April 2026, Police in northeastern Thailand seized 248 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine worth nearly 100 million baht after a cross-border drug gang opened fire while fleeing across the Mekong River, officials said.

At a press briefing held at 11:30 on 29 April 2026, provincial authorities said the drugs had been smuggled from a neighbouring country and were destined for distribution in inner provinces, particularly tourist areas.

The seizure followed an intelligence-led operation ordered by Maj. Gen. Atthachon Chuangngam, commander of Nong Khai provincial police. Investigators had received a tip-off on 24 April 2026 at around 18:00 that Lao nationals would transport methamphetamine by boat across the Mekong and deliver it near Wat Rat Chamnong in Mueang Mee subdistrict.

At about 0:30, officers observed a Toyota saloon car without visible registration plates arriving at the site. Several bags were seen placed nearby. Two men exited the vehicle to load the bags while a third remained in the driver's seat.

When officers identified themselves, the suspects fled into nearby woodland, firing shots to cover their escape. The driver sped off along a local road.

Police found five abandoned bags containing 178 packages of methamphetamine, each weighing 1 kilogram and wrapped in packaging printed with images of durian and tea. Officers later located two more bags along the escape route, containing an additional 70 packages.

In total, 248 kilograms of methamphetamine were seized, with an estimated value of about 99.2 million baht.

Authorities believe the drugs were intended for distribution within Thailand, where traffickers sell methamphetamine for up to 400,000 baht per kilogram.

The seized narcotics have been handed over to investigators at Wiang Khuk Police Station for further legal proceedings.