Game Over! Indian Man Caught Flaunting Rifles and Target Practice on Koh Phangan
An Indian national was arrested on Koh Phangan after police raided his residence following reports of firearm discharges and drug trafficking. The 33-year-old faces charges including overstaying, illegal drug possession, and methamphetamine
An Indian national was arrested on Koh Phangan after videos emerged showing a foreigner displaying long and short firearms and conducting shooting practice drills. On May 23, 2025, Deputy Police Commissioner Samran Nualma, as director of the Anti-Transnational Criminal Center and Immigration Bureau, ordered a coordinated operation. Police units led by Colonel Prawit Engchuan raided a residence and apprehended Mr. Shabeelkunnon Valappil, a 33-year-old Indian national, at house number 151/10, Moo 1, Koh Phangan Sub-district, Koh Phangan District, Surat Thani Province.
Valappil faces charges of overstaying in Thailand, illegal possession and distribution of methamphetamine and ketamine, and drug consumption. Officers found nine bags of narcotics and drug paraphernalia in his possession during the arrest.
The investigation began on May 13 following tips about a foreign national engaged in suspicious behavior and drug trafficking near a durian orchard in Koh Phangan, with reports of frequent firearm discharges at his residence. Police identified the suspect as Valappil and conducted the raid on May 23. When officers arrived, Valappil attempted to flee on a motorcycle but was apprehended. Searches revealed he possessed a fascination with firearms, with evidence of target practice including ammunition casings and shooting targets. Officers seized drug-related evidence and transferred him to Koh Phangan Police Station for further legal proceedings.
