Police Elevate Airline Hostess Drug Case to International Crime

Thai police have formally elevated the case of airline hostess Mina, arrested by Australian customs and federal police with drug packages, to an international criminal organization investigation. On July 4, 2026, Police Commander General Achayan Kraitong announced the establishment of a dedicated task force to pursue the case as a transnational crime, aiming to identify all accomplices and masterminds behind the operation.

The investigation team, led by Deputy Police Commanders Sombourn Tiankao and Worrapoj Disyabut, and other senior officers, will coordinate with the Metropolitan Police Bureau, Australian Federal Police (AFP), the Office of the Narcotics Control Board, and related agencies. They will aggressively collect evidence from all angles—interviewing the suspect's associates, drivers, and vehicle owners; reviewing CCTV footage; and gathering forensic and communications data to link all involved parties into legal proceedings.

Investigations indicate the case may be connected to an international drug smuggling network. Charges being considered include participation in a transnational criminal organization for serious drug offenses occurring in both Thailand and abroad. Convictions carry sentences of four to fifteen years imprisonment, or fines of 80,000 to 300,000 baht, or both.

The Metropolitan Police Bureau will pursue the investigation vigorously to identify those who gave orders, financial backers, accomplices, and the international drug trafficking network, ensuring no one escapes legal accountability to safeguard society and the nation.