Police seize 519kg of crystal meth in south Thailand
Thai police seized 519kg of crystal methamphetamine and arrested two suspects at a checkpoint on Phetkasem Road in Chumphon province during a late-night operation targeting drug trafficking through southern Thailand.
CHUMPHON — On May 13, 2026, Thai police seized more than 519 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and arrested two suspects during a late-night drug interdiction operation in southern Thailand.
The suspects were detained at approximately 04:10 near the Pathomphon checkpoint on Phetkasem Road in Muang district, Chumphon province, a key transit route through Thailand's southern region.
Police also confiscated a vehicle and two mobile phones during the operation.
The seizure was conducted by officers from the Pathomphon checkpoint under the supervision of Provincial Police Region 8 and Chumphon provincial police, which have intensified inspections along major southern highways as traffickers continue attempting to move narcotics through the area.
The operation was directed by Lieutenant General Sitthichai Lokanphai, commissioner of Provincial Police Region 8, along with senior regional and provincial police commanders.
Officers led by Lieutenant Colonel Piyaphon Chatphum, chief of the Pathomphon checkpoint, stopped and searched the suspects' vehicle before discovering the methamphetamine shipment.
Authorities charged the two suspects with possession of a Category 1 narcotic with intent to distribute without authorization, an offense related to commercial trafficking and public security threats under Thai law.
Investigators said they are expanding the inquiry to identify additional suspects and trace the broader trafficking network believed to be operating in southern Thailand and neighboring provinces.
