Thai police have dismantled a major drug trafficking operation after a dramatic chase led to the seizure of more than 238 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine valued at over 300 million baht (approximately RM41 million).
The operation was led by officers from Regional Police Region 4 after intelligence revealed a suspicious pickup truck believed to be transporting drugs along the Nong Khai–Bueng Kan route.
Police eventually intercepted the vehicle near a rubber plantation in Mueang District, Bueng Kan Province, after the suspects attempted to flee upon being cornered.
One suspect, identified as 29-year-old Ekkarach (also known as Palm), was arrested at the scene, while another accomplice managed to escape into nearby forested areas under the cover of darkness.
Authorities recovered eight sacks hidden in the pickup truck, which were found to contain 238 packages of crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as “ice”.
Police said the drugs were concealed both inside the cabin and the truck bed, wrapped in black plastic and disguised as agricultural goods.
The chase unfolded after officers spotted the suspicious vehicle entering a rubber plantation area, prompting them to move in and block its escape route.
During the pursuit, the vehicle’s front tyre was damaged, forcing it to stop, after which the driver attempted to flee on foot before being captured.
Regional Police commander Pol. Lt. Gen. Santi Chainiramai said the operation is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle large-scale drug trafficking networks operating along the Mekong River border.
He added that investigations and surveillance efforts have been intensified to curb the movement of methamphetamine into the country.
The seized drugs, along with the suspect and vehicle, have been handed over to Ho Kham Police Station for further investigation under multiple drug-related charges.
