Nakhon phanom: Police have successfully intercepted a massive drug shipment, recovering 300 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, as members of a transnational drug trafficking gang fled across the Mekong River into Laos. The operation, conducted by Naval Border Patrol Unit 24, took place between Nakhon Phanom and That Phanom, where the traffickers abandoned their vehicle and the illicit cargo.
According to Thai News Agency, the Royal Thai Army, through the 2nd Army Area and the Northeastern Border Narcotics Suppression and Interdiction Command, spearheaded the operation with the Surasakmontri Task Force. The effort involved the Upper Narcotics Suppression and Interdiction Section under the 1st Control Command, with the Nakhon Phanom Naval Station playing a central role. Intelligence reports had indicated that narcotics were being smuggled into Thailand, prompting the coordinated surveillance operation in Ban Naad, Ban Klang Subdistrict of Mueang Nakhon Phanom District.
At around 12:50 AM, officials observed a long-tailed motorboat crossing from Laos and unloading seven sacks on the Thai shore. As the individuals involved quickly retreated into Laos, attention shifted to a suspicious Honda Jazz vehicle arriving at the scene. The driver, upon being approached by officers, fled south along the Mekong River. After a pursuit, the car was discovered abandoned in Ban Klang Noi village, where the seven sacks, containing an estimated 300 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, were found in the trunk.
Despite the successful seizure of the drugs and vehicle, no arrests were made as the suspects managed to escape under the cover of darkness. The seized items have been transported to the Nakhon Phanom Naval Station for safekeeping and detailed recording. The evidence will be handed over to Ban Klang Police Station for further legal action and investigation into the trafficking network.