BANGKOK – A 26-year-old Italian man, wanted in his home country on serious drug trafficking charges, has been arrested by Thai immigration authorities at his condominium in Bangkok’s Ekkamai area. The suspect, identified as Mr. Simone, was living in Thailand under the five-year “Destination Thailand Visa” (DTV), a visa category designed for remote workers and long-term visitors.

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The arrest followed a tip-off from the Italian Embassy’s Police Attaché’s Office. Italian investigators had issued a warrant through a court in Asti, charging Simone with supplying narcotics—including heroin, cocaine, ketamine, ecstasy, and LSD—to a distribution network in Italy. The drugs were allegedly smuggled via international postal parcels between September 2024 and June 2025. The investigation led to the arrest of two parcel recipients in Italy, who identified Simone as the gang’s supplier.

After learning he was under investigation, Simone fled Italy and entered Thailand in October 2025, successfully obtaining a DTV, which permits stays of up to 180 days per entry and is valid for five years. Thai immigration officers reported that he had been living quietly in a condominium, drawing little attention.

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— Bangkok Davie (@bangkokdavie) December 3, 2025

Acting on a search warrant from the Bangkok South Criminal Court, police entered his residence. While no drugs or illegal items were found, authorities proceeded with his arrest based on the outstanding Italian warrant. He has been transferred to the Immigration Detention Center as officials coordinate with the Italian Embassy.

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The case underscores the challenges posed by borderless digital lifestyles and newer long-term visa categories. Authorities noted that cooperation between Thai and Italian police enabled a swift response once the alert was issued. Officials are now working to arrange Simone’s deportation so he can face charges in Italy, where the investigation remains ongoing.

-Thailand News (TN)