Riverine Force Seizes 6.1 Million Yaba Tablets in Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai’s Mekong Riverine Force seized over 6.1 million yaba tablets hidden in 21 sacks after intercepting a smuggling attempt across the Mekong River on October 8, 2016. The operation, supported by local intelligence, also resulted in the confiscation of a black SUV used to transport the drugs. Officials praised public cooperation and warned against glorifying the street value of narcotics.
The operation began after the Chiang Rai Riverine Force received information from the Pha Mueang task force and local informants about a planned large‑scale drug smuggling attempt across the Mekong River, expected between October 7 and 9. Surveillance teams were deployed along the riverbank near Ban Hua Kwang, Baan Sae sub‑district, Chiang Saen district. At about 7:20 p.m. on October 8, officers spotted a suspicious boat crossing from the neighboring side, passing north of Phakam Island before drifting to the Thai shore south of the island. Six to seven men were seen unloading black‑wrapped fertilizer sacks containing the drugs and stacking them on the riverbank. When the transfer was complete, the men signaled a black SUV waiting on the road to back up and load the cargo. Officers moved in to inspect, but the suspects fled into the surrounding darkness using their knowledge of the terrain. Police then seized 21 black‑wrapped sacks holding roughly 6.1 million yaba tablets, together with the SUV, and transported the evidence to the Chiang Rai Riverine Force headquarters for counting and further legal action. The Riverine Force commander urged the media not to emphasize the monetary value of the drugs, warning that highlighting huge prices could encourage desperate people to join the drug trade, noting that carriers are paid between 10,000 and 15,000 baht per trip across the river, with rates rising according to distance and quantity.
