UDON THANI — A young couple expecting their first child has been arrested in Udon Thani for trafficking over 100,000 methamphetamine pills, reportedly in exchange for nearly one million baht to cover upcoming wedding and childbirth expenses.
The suspects, 20-year-old Pavina “View” and her 16-year-old boyfriend Pathomdet, were apprehended on June 8 at a traffic light near Mueang Thong Market. Acting on intelligence about drug smuggling from the Mekong River, the Border Patrol Police Unit 24 intercepted the pair as they rode a black Yamaha motorcycle without a license plate.
Authorities discovered a grey plastic box containing 50 bundles of methamphetamine—totaling 100,000 pills—along with an additional 170 pills hidden in Pavina’s shoulder bag. The couple was taken into custody for questioning.
During interrogation, Pavina confessed that she had been hired by a drug financier from a neighboring country. The drugs were picked up from the Tha Uthen district in Nakhon Phanom and were intended for delivery within Udon Thani. She said they were promised a payout of 909,000 baht (approximately USD 27,785) upon successful delivery.
Originally, her boyfriend was the designated driver, but after securing the drugs, the pair switched roles. Pavina, five months pregnant, took the wheel while Pathomdet rode pillion, holding the box of narcotics.
Pavina told police that she was desperate to earn money for her family, the upcoming childbirth, and to pay off her recently purchased motorcycle. She claimed this was her first time getting involved in drug trafficking and denied having used any drugs herself.
Pathomdet admitted his involvement and said his motivation was to support their unborn child and fund a traditional marriage proposal, which required 50,000 baht. He expressed regret, saying he initially opposed the plan but eventually agreed under pressure.
The two now face charges of possession of a Category 1 narcotic (methamphetamine) with intent to distribute. Another suspect, “Nes,” who was also involved, tested positive for methamphetamine and faces an additional charge of drug use.
Authorities have transferred the suspects to investigators for further legal action.
