PHUKET – A high-profile drug raid at a luxury condominium in Wichit led to the arrest of three individuals, including a Russian national, on Tuesday, July 9, 2025. The operation, conducted by Wichit Police, targeted a unit located behind a prominent shopping mall in the area, uncovering a cache of illegal substances.

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Authorities identified the suspects as two Thai nationals—23-year-old Sirawit, and 23-year-old Thanakrit—alongside 20-year-old Dmitrii, a Russian citizen. During the search, officers seized multiple illicit items, including 0.7 grams of ketamine, one ecstasy pill, and 0.33 grams of pink powdered ecstasy. Urine tests administered at the scene confirmed the presence of narcotics in all three individuals, with both Thai suspects testing positive for ecstasy and ketamine, while the Russian national was found to have consumed illegal substances as well.

The suspects now face serious charges under Thailand’s stringent narcotics laws, including possession of Category 1 drugs (ecstasy) and Category 2 drugs (ketamine), as well as illegal drug consumption. Following their arrest, they were taken to Wichit Police Station for further interrogation and legal processing.

Police Colonel Narongchai Klahan, who oversaw the operation, emphasized the department’s zero-tolerance stance on drug-related activities, particularly in high-end residential areas frequented by both locals and foreigners. “This arrest sends a clear message that Phuket remains vigilant against narcotics, regardless of nationality,” he stated.

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The raid underscores ongoing efforts by Thai authorities to clamp down on drug abuse, which has seen a resurgence in popular tourist destinations. Investigators are now working to determine whether the suspects were part of a larger distribution network operating in the region.

-Thailand News (TN)