Authorities in Banglamung District have arrested a notorious drug dealer in a significant narcotics bust that led to the seizure of large quantities of methamphetamine and crystal meth. The suspect, identified as Ratthaphong Phananuson, 40, also known by his street alias “Got Soi Noen,” was captured during a coordinated operation in Pattaya.
The sting operation was led by Banglamung District Chief Patcharapat Sritanyanon, along with a joint task force that included administrative officers led by Wanchai Wannaphrom and police personnel from Nongprue Police Station. Officers involved in the bust included Kamphrai Laosaen, Nathaphop Yomjinda, Natthawat Sophonsewatasilp, and Tharit Chancharoon.
Authorities were tipped off by a drug user who named Ratthaphong as a key supplier in the local drug network. Acting on this intelligence, officers tracked the suspect and caught him while he was allegedly making a drug delivery in Soi Nong Krabok, Pattaya.
The arrest took place while Ratthaphong was driving a black Honda Civic. Officers intercepted the vehicle and found methamphetamine and crystal meth, locally referred to as “ice,” inside a black shoulder bag he was carrying. A further search of the vehicle revealed additional crystal meth hidden in the car.
The operation did not stop there. Police extended their investigation to Ratthaphong’s home, located in Soi Nern Plab Wan. A search of the residence turned up more methamphetamine pills, crystal methamphetamine, a digital weighing scale, plastic zip-lock bags used for drug packaging, and other paraphernalia related to drug distribution.
Under interrogation, Ratthaphong admitted to possessing and selling narcotics. He then led officers to a condominium in South Pattaya, where he had hidden additional drugs. In Room 235/95 on the fifth floor of the condo building, police uncovered a concealed stash of crystal methamphetamine, confirming Ratthaphong’s role as a major supplier in the region.
In total, authorities seized 438 methamphetamine pills, 62.61 grams of crystal methamphetamine, a digital scale, drug packaging materials, and other drug-related equipment. The complete haul reflects the scale and seriousness of the suspect’s involvement in the local drug trade.
Ratthaphong has been handed over to investigators at Nongprue Police Station. He is currently being held pending prosecution on multiple charges related to the possession and distribution of narcotics. The case will proceed under Thai anti-narcotics laws, which carry severe penalties for those found guilty of trafficking.
District Chief Patcharapat praised the efficiency and cooperation among the various law enforcement teams involved. “This arrest sends a clear message that we are committed to removing drugs from our communities,” he stated. “Our operations will continue, and we will not rest until drug networks in Pattaya are dismantled.”
The bust marks a significant victory for local law enforcement amid ongoing efforts to curb the rampant spread of methamphetamine and crystal meth in urban areas of Thailand. Pattaya, a popular tourist destination, has increasingly become a hotspot for drug-related activities, making such operations crucial for public safety.
Authorities continue to investigate whether Ratthaphong is linked to a wider network of dealers operating in Chonburi province and beyond. More arrests may follow as the investigation expands.
