Indian Man Arrested on Koh Phangan for Posting Gun-Toting Videos on Social Media, Found Dealing Drugs at Parties
Indian national arrested on Koh Phangan after posting armed videos on social media while dealing drugs at parties; police seized methamphetamine, MDMA, ketamine and a firearm from his residence.
Region 8 Police conducted a raid and arrested an audacious Indian national on Koh Phangan who had been posting gun-wielding videos on social media while allegedly dealing drugs at parties. The case originated from videos showing a foreigner displaying and firing both long and short weapons with evidence of target practice. On May 23, 2025, Deputy Police Commissioner Pol. Gen. Samran Nualma authorized the operation, with Pol. Col. Naphsil Poolsawadi and Pol. Col. Sitthichai Logkampal mobilizing officers led by Pol. Maj. Prawit Engchuean to arrest Mr. Shabeelkunnon Valappil, a 33-year-old Indian national, at his residence in Moo 1, Koh Phangan subdistrict, Koh Phangan district, Surat Thani province.
Valappil was charged with overstaying his visa. Police seized crystal methamphetamine, MDMA, ketamine, and a firearm, along with a second suspect and additional drug paraphernalia. The investigation began on May 13 when police launched an operation targeting foreign networks using Thai nominees as front companies in Koh Phangan. Local residents provided information about a foreigner with reckless behavior who dealt drugs in the durian orchard area of Moo 2, Ban Tai subdistrict, and frequently fired weapons at his residence.
When officers arrived at the location on May 23, they found three houses. The homeowner reported Valappil was outside and returning shortly. When Valappil arrived on a motorcycle, police revealed their identities. He attempted to flee but officers subdued him. A search of Valappil's person uncovered nine bags of drugs and an aluminum tube in his left pants pocket, plus a drug-measuring spoon hidden in a pink bag. Investigators discovered his affinity for firearms through photos with both short and long weapons, evidence of shooting practice including shell casings and target marks, and involvement in drug distribution on Koh Samui. An examination of his mobile phone revealed images of various drugs with clearly marked prices. The suspect was transferred to Koh Phangan Police Station for legal proceedings.
