Under the directive of Police General Kittirat Phanphuet, National Police Chief, law enforcement nationwide has stepped up efforts to combat crime, particularly drug-related offences, during the festive period to enhance public safety.
On 22 December, officers from Highway Police Station 3, Subdivision 2, and the Narcotics Suppression Bureau arrested a man wanted in connection with drug trafficking across provinces. The operation, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Phuttangkun Rueangtham, resulted in the apprehension of Mr. Teerawut, 30, a resident of Phatthalung Province, under a warrant issued by the Criminal Court in October. The suspect faces charges of conspiring to distribute Category 1 narcotics, specifically methamphetamine, without permission.
The arrest occurred at 12:00 p.m. on Phetkasem Road at kilometre marker 6 along the Cha-am–Pranburi route in Cha-am District, Phetchaburi Province.
Police intelligence had identified Mr. Teerawut as the driver of a blue Isuzu D-MAX pickup truck with Phuket licence plates, travelling from southern Thailand towards Bangkok. Officers set up surveillance in Cha-am District after determining that the vehicle would likely pass through Phetchaburi Province that morning.
The suspect’s vehicle was spotted and intercepted by officers, who confirmed his identity and presented the arrest warrant. Mr. Teerawut, who acknowledged the warrant, stated it was his first arrest and initially denied the allegations.
He was subsequently handed over to the Narcotics Suppression Bureau for further legal proceedings.