3.2 Million Meth Pills Found in Crashed SUV in Saraburi
Police in Saraburi province discovered a massive drug haul on Sunday night after an SUV crashed into a rocky hillside and was found abandoned with 3.2 million methamphetamine pills inside.
Crash Near Dangerous Curve
The crash occurred around 10 p.m. on a rain-slicked road with a sharp curve in tambon Na Phra Lan, Chalerm Phrakiat district. According to local police, the red SUV crossed the median and smashed into the hillside, leaving the front end heavily damaged and a burst left front tire.
A police patrol discovered the abandoned vehicle shortly after the accident. The driver had already fled the scene by the time authorities arrived.
Weapons and Drugs Discovered
Upon searching the SUV, officers found two loaded .38 caliber pistols in the center console. In the rear of the vehicle, they discovered eight large black sacks wrapped in plastic and covered with a white cloth. Inside the sacks were 3.2 million meth pills, estimated to be worth about 136 million baht.
The vehicle was towed to Na Phra Lan police station, where forensic teams are continuing their examination.
Suspicious Vehicle Registration
Police reported that the SUV was registered to a navy officer, although they are investigating whether the registration is authentic and who had actual control or possession of the vehicle at the time of the incident.
Suspected Drug Route
Investigators believe the methamphetamine was likely being transported from Thailand’s Northeast region, possibly headed to central provinces or Bangkok’s outskirts for storage and distribution.
Eyewitness Report
Thoeng Boonmang, a volunteer rescuer from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, stated that the vehicle had reportedly traveled from Nong Jan intersection toward Na Phra Lan junction before it crashed. He confirmed the SUV was unoccupied upon arrival, and the rear compartment was filled with meth-laden sacks.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are working to track down the missing driver and determine the full scope of the smuggling operation. The case is part of an ongoing crackdown on drug trafficking in the region.