Prosecutor Orders Charges Against Heroin Network Behind Thai Airlines Hostess
Four members of an international heroin trafficking network linked to a Thai Airways flight attendant face prosecution after authorities discovered drugs hidden in elephant-patterned bags smuggled across borders.
The Office of the Attorney General has ordered prosecution of four members of an international drug trafficking network known as "Air Mina" who were caught smuggling heroin in elephant-patterned fabric bags. The investigation began following the arrest of Mina Kondo, a Thai Airways flight attendant, after authorities discovered she had hidden drugs across international borders before her arrest in Australia. The investigation subsequently led to the apprehension of three additional suspects, with one suspect still at large.
Dr. Watcharin Phanuttan, Director of the Attorney General's Investigation Office, announced that on September 18, Supreme Prosecutor Ittiphon Kaewthip signed an order to prosecute suspects Udom "Jo Jo" Kanapivatana, Nantavat "Na" Yingpatanawong, Ekawit "Ek" Yongnitkul, and Chantra "Da" Janoo. The four face charges of participating in a transnational criminal organization, conspiracy to commit drug trafficking offenses, unlicensed distribution and export of heroin (a Category 1 drug) for commercial purposes, attempted unlicensed export of heroin, and conspiracy to conceal evidence. These charges carry potential death penalties.
The prosecution requests court seizure of seven elephant-patterned fabric bags and one mobile phone. An additional investigation into two of the suspects' possible involvement in evidence concealment has been separated into a parallel case. The Supreme Prosecutor has assigned specialized drug trafficking prosecutors from the Attorney General's Office to pursue the case to conclusion.
