HUA HIN, THAILAND — Thai immigration authorities have arrested a Finnish national wanted on an INTERPOL Red Notice for a string of serious crimes in Norway, including a shocking murder and the operation of a large-scale drug trafficking ring. The suspect, identified as Daniel Reijo Karvonen, was captured during an elaborate undercover operation in the upscale resort town of Hua Hin, located in Prachuap Khiri Khan province, southwest of Bangkok.
The arrest was executed by officers under the command of Police Colonel Chairit Anurit, head of Immigration Division 3, following a directive from Thailand’s National Police Commander. Authorities say Karvonen posed a significant threat to public safety and had entered the country in an apparent attempt to evade international law enforcement.
According to Thai police, Karvonen had been living quietly in Hua Hin, a popular destination for foreign retirees and long-term tourists. Investigators tracked the fugitive over an extended period, eventually locating him at a local condominium. Officers then devised a creative strategy to apprehend him — disguising themselves as fitness trainers at the condominium’s gym to get close to their target.
Once Karvonen was positively identified inside the gym, officers revealed their identities and swiftly made the arrest. The operation was conducted without violence, and the suspect was taken into custody for further legal processing and eventual extradition.
A Dangerous Criminal with a Violent Past
Karvonen, 24, is listed on INTERPOL’s Red Notice due to three major felony charges issued by Norwegian authorities. The most serious of these involves his alleged participation in the brutal murder of a man in Kongsvinger, a small town in southeastern Norway, in November 2024. The murder reportedly shocked the local community and sparked an intensive international manhunt.
In addition to the murder charge, Karvonen is accused of being a central figure in a sophisticated narcotics trafficking operation that stretched across the Norwegian-Swedish border. Police reports suggest he collaborated with organized crime groups to manufacture and distribute illicit drugs, using automobiles to smuggle large quantities of narcotics between the two countries.
Norwegian police described Karvonen as highly dangerous, resourceful, and capable of evading law enforcement. His arrest abroad marks a significant breakthrough in the international efforts to bring him to justice.
Thailand’s Crackdown on Transnational Crime
Thai authorities emphasized that the successful capture of Karvonen aligns with an ongoing national campaign to combat foreign criminals who attempt to use Thailand as a hideout. Police Colonel Chairit noted that this high-profile arrest is part of a broader crackdown targeting individuals who pose threats to public safety, national security, and the country’s international reputation.
“This is a serious effort under the directive of the National Police Commander,” Chairit stated. “We are committed to removing foreign criminals who try to infiltrate and operate within our borders. This helps maintain law and order while boosting public confidence in our law enforcement systems.”
The arrest also serves as a warning to other fugitives who may view Thailand as a safe haven. Thai police continue to collaborate with international law enforcement agencies, including INTERPOL, to track and apprehend transnational criminals.
Karvonen is now being held in Thai custody and is expected to be extradited to Norway, where he will face trial for his alleged crimes.
