Bangkok, Thailand – Two Nigerian men have been arrested in Bangkok after being implicated in an international drug trafficking operation by a Thai woman caught attempting to smuggle cocaine into Japan. The suspects, identified as Ihejimba Bright Chimezie and Azubuike Chidiebere David, were found to be overstaying their visas and now face both immigration and drug-related charges.

Nigerian Cocaine Dealer Arrested in Koh Pha Ngan

The arrests were made during a joint operation by Thai immigration and narcotics control police on Tuesday. Authorities raided a condominium room located on Navamin-Ram Intra Road in Kannayao district, where the two men were apprehended. Pol Maj Gen Phanthana Nuchanart, deputy commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, confirmed the arrests during a press briefing on Wednesday.

The suspects were initially charged with overstaying their visas and handed over to immigration investigators for immediate legal action. However, their alleged involvement in drug trafficking is also under investigation, following revelations from a Thai woman arrested in Japan.

Connection to International Drug Smuggling

The case unfolded after Japanese police arrested a Thai woman attempting to smuggle cocaine into Japan by swallowing 59 small packets of the drug, totaling approximately 700 grams. The cocaine, valued at around 2.1 million baht (approximately $57,000), was intercepted during a routine inspection. During questioning, the woman reportedly implicated the two Nigerian men in Bangkok as key figures in the drug trafficking network.

BANGKOK – Lumpini Police arrested a Nigerian man with 0.75g and 1.13g of cocaine in two plastic bags wrapped in black tape. He’s charged with illegal possession of Category 2 narcotics and overstaying his visa in Thailand.

cr: สถานีตำรวจนครบาลลุมพินี – Lumpini Police Station pic.twitter.com/XHd8PdWrNf

— Chrome Crumpet (@ChromeCrumpet) February 18, 2025

Ongoing Investigations

Thai authorities are now working closely with Japanese officials to uncover the full extent of the drug smuggling operation. Pol Maj Gen Phanthana emphasized that the arrests highlight the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational crime. “This case demonstrates how drug networks operate across borders, and it is crucial that we work together to dismantle them,” he said.

The two Nigerian nationals are currently in custody, facing charges of overstaying their visas, which could result in fines, deportation, or both. Additionally, they are under investigation for their alleged role in drug trafficking, which carries severe penalties under Thai law, including lengthy prison sentences or even the death penalty for large-scale drug offenses.

Crackdown on Overstayers and Drug Crimes

The arrests are part of a broader crackdown by Thai authorities on visa overstayers and individuals involved in illegal activities. The Immigration Bureau has intensified efforts to track down and prosecute foreign nationals who violate immigration laws, particularly those linked to criminal enterprises.

This case serves as a reminder of the risks associated with drug trafficking and the severe consequences faced by those involved. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help combat the spread of illegal drugs.

Thai woman arrested in Suvarnabhumi with 2.3kg of cocaine in her backpack

As the investigation continues, Thai and Japanese officials are expected to share further details about the drug network and any additional arrests that may follow.

-Thailand News (TN)