86-Year-Old Drug Lord Released After Royal Pardon

Lao Ta Saen Lee, 86, a major drug trafficker arrested during a large-scale narcotics sweep on October 11, 2016, has been released after receiving a royal pardon. On August 14, 2025, at Bang Khwang Central Prison, Ajchara Srichum, the Nonthaburi Provincial Prosecutor, presided over a release ceremony for inmates granted clemency under the 2025 Royal Pardon Decree, which was issued to mark the Queen Mother's fourth-round birthday celebrations on June 3, 2025 at Wing 14 of the facility.

Inmates who completed rehabilitation programs also received certificates in accordance with the royal initiative "Mound, Marsh, and Field of Compassion and Hope," administered by the Department of Corrections. The program, now in its eighth cycle, aims to restore offenders' capabilities, develop professional skills, and promote self-sufficient new agricultural theory, enabling former inmates to apply their knowledge and lead sustainable lives after release.

Lao Ta Saen Lee was convicted of drug trafficking and firearms offenses. He was charged with conspiracy and distribution of crystal methamphetamine, a Schedule 1 narcotic drug without authorization, as well as violations of the Firearms and Ammunition Act. A former subdistrict headman of Tha Ton Subdistrict in Mae Ai District, Chiang Mai Province, he was known to have been close to Khun Sa, an influential figure in the Golden Triangle region.

The case resulted from a major police narcotics operation. On October 11, 2016, officers led by Deputy Police General Rewat Klin Kasem conducted a sting operation before apprehending Lao Ta Saen Lee and his network at his fuel station in Mae Ai District. Authorities seized approximately 20 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and confiscated assets related to the case worth over 1 billion baht.

The royal pardon was granted in accordance with criteria and conditions set out in the 2025 Royal Pardon Decree.