A late-night raid in Phuket’s Rawai Sea Gypsy Village has led to the arrest of a 22-year-old man, uncovering a stash of crystal methamphetamine and methamphetamine pills hidden along a narrow walkway. The operation, conducted yesterday, July 14, highlights ongoing efforts by local authorities to combat drug trafficking in the island province.
Phuket police, acting under the orders of Governor Sophon Suwannarat, moved swiftly to arrest Sompop, also known as Oh, a young man from the Rawai subdistrict, on multiple charges related to drug possession and distribution. The operation was coordinated by high-ranking officials, including Deputy Governor Lieutenant Colonel Adul Chuthong, Permanent Secretary of Phuket Thiraphong Chuaychu, and Mueang District Chief Pairoj Srilamul. The raid itself was led by District Chief for Security Thiti Bunyasathian and officers from the 1st Phuket City Volunteer Defence Corps Company.
The bust took place deep inside the Rawai Sea Gypsy Village, an area that has become notorious in recent years for petty crime and drug activity. Acting on intelligence reports, officers tracked Sompop to a secluded walkway, where they carried out a thorough search. During the operation, officers discovered eight small bags of crystal meth weighing a total of 5.89 grammes, along with five methamphetamine tablets.
Officials allege that Sompop was preparing to distribute the drugs locally, posing a significant threat to community safety.
“This arrest is part of our ongoing effort to protect communities from the scourge of narcotics,” said Thiti Bunyasathian, who oversaw the operation. “We will not tolerate drug dealing in any form.”
Following his arrest, Sompop was taken to Chalong Police Station along with the seized evidence for further legal proceedings. He faces multiple charges, including distributing Category 1 narcotics (methamphetamine and crystal meth) by possessing them with the intent to distribute, and illegal use of Category 1 narcotics.
The raid underscores a broader crackdown aimed at disrupting the drug trade across Phuket. Authorities have noted a worrying trend of small-scale drug networks operating out of low-income and densely populated areas, which makes enforcement efforts both challenging and crucial.
Local leaders emphasized the importance of community cooperation in fighting drug crime.
“Residents play a crucial role in helping us identify illegal activities,” said Thiraphong Chuaychu, Permanent Secretary of Phuket. “We encourage people to report suspicious behavior so we can take swift action.”
Officials have also warned that additional operations are planned in the coming weeks as part of Phuket’s zero-tolerance policy on narcotics. The government’s commitment reflects a growing determination to keep the province safe for both residents and the millions of tourists who visit the island each year.
As the investigation into Sompop’s activities continues, authorities remain vigilant in their pursuit of those who seek to profit from the drug trade, determined to preserve peace and safety in Phuket’s communities.
