Thailand’s Central Investigation Bureau, working alongside the Immigration Bureau and the Anti-Narcotics Centre of the Royal Thai Police, has arrested a suspected Nigerian drug syndicate linked to the smuggling of more than 65 kilograms of heroin concealed in snack packages and pet food.
Three suspects — Ms Kanyarat, Mr Chiadikaobi, and Ms Somporn — were arrested in separate operations across Bangkok on May 18.
Authorities said the suspects are facing charges related to the illegal possession and distribution of Category 1 narcotics, with prosecutors also citing threats to public safety and national security.
The investigation began after Nong Khai Immigration Police received intelligence about a network of foreign traffickers allegedly moving heroin into Thailand for distribution in major tourist destinations such as Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket.
During a raid on a hotel in Bangkok, officers arrested Mr Chiadikaobi after discovering 49.5 kilograms of heroin hidden inside snack bags in an apparent attempt to avoid detection.
Further investigations later led police to the Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal, where Ms Somporn was apprehended with another 16 kilograms of heroin in her possession.
According to investigators, both Mr Chiadikaobi and Ms Somporn admitted they received the drugs from Ms Kanyarat for onward distribution to smaller drug dealers operating in tourist hotspots.
Ms Somporn reportedly told police she was travelling to Phuket to deliver the narcotics before she was intercepted.
Authorities estimated that the seized heroin could have generated nearly 200 million baht on the black market, where the drug reportedly sells for about 3,500 baht per gram.
Under Thailand’s Narcotics Act, the suspects could face severe penalties ranging from five years imprisonment to life sentences, substantial fines, or even the death penalty.
The Central Investigation Bureau has also cautioned the public against accepting requests from strangers met online to transport parcels, warning that unsuspecting individuals are often exploited by international drug trafficking networks
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