Belgian Tourist Arrested at Phuket Airport With 31.7kg Cannabis
A 21-year-old Belgian tourist was arrested at Phuket Airport on July 7 after customs officers discovered 31.7 kilograms of cannabis in two suitcases she was attempting to check for an international flight.
PHUKET — On July 7, 2026, authorities at Phuket International Airport arrested a 21-year-old Belgian tourist after discovering approximately 31.7 kilograms of cannabis packed in two suitcases she was about to check in for an international flight.
Officers at the international departures terminal identified two suspicious suitcases—one green-and-white and one black—during baggage screening.
The search revealed 12 vacuum-sealed packages containing 28.3 kilograms of cannabis flower, along with eight packages of processed cannabis weighing 3.4 kilograms, for a total seizure of approximately 31.7 kilograms.
The woman initially admitted that both suitcases and their contents belonged to her, according to authorities.
She faces charges under the Customs Act 2017 for attempting to export goods without customs clearance, as well as offences under Thailand's Narcotics Code, the Thai Traditional Medicine Protection and Promotion Act 1999, the Ministry of Public Health's 2025 Notification on Controlled Herbs (Cannabis), and other applicable laws.
The suspect and seized cannabis were transferred to investigators at Sakhu Police Station for further legal proceedings.
Pol. Col. Salan Santisatsanakul, superintendent of Sakhu Police Station, stated that the arrest resulted from coordinated operations between customs and security agencies to strengthen passenger and baggage screening at Phuket International Airport and prevent illegal cannabis exports and other prohibited goods.
Authorities said they will continue strictly enforcing the law against anyone attempting to smuggle controlled substances out of the country.
