PHUKET — In a dramatic turn of events, local authorities in Phuket have made two significant arrests involving international criminals linked to drug trafficking and violent crimes. The first arrest involved a 24-year-old Russian national, Mr. Artem, who was apprehended on March 26, 2025, at his residence in Suk Nirun 1 Alley, Wichit Sub-district, Mueang District. During a raid conducted by Wichit Police, officers discovered over 1 kilogram of dried cannabis flowers, numerous e-cigarettes, cannabis extract cartridges, and more than 200 smoking devices. The total value of the seized items is estimated to be nearly 1 million baht (approximately $29,500). This arrest comes amid a broader crackdown on illegal e-cigarettes and cannabis sales in the region.
Mr. Artem faces multiple charges, including selling or processing controlled herbs for commercial purposes without permission, possession of Category 5 narcotics without permission, and working as a foreigner without a work permit. Police Colonel Somsak Thongkliang, Superintendent of Wichit Police Station, emphasized the growing prevalence of e-cigarettes across various provinces and the ongoing collaboration with the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office to combat illegal drug distribution.
In a separate but equally alarming case, Thai Immigration announced the arrest of a French national named Adonis, wanted under a French arrest warrant and an Interpol Red Notice. Adonis is implicated in a serious crime involving the escape of an inmate named Mohamed from a French prison on May 14, 2024. This incident resulted in the tragic deaths of two prison guards and left three others severely injured.
According to reports, Mohamed was being transferred from court to prison when he was freed by a group of six individuals, three of whom were armed. The escape was a well-coordinated effort that led to a massive investigation by French police, mobilizing 120 officers to track down the culprits. Mohamed was later arrested in Romania on February 22, 2025, while Adonis fled to Thailand before the issuance of his arrest warrant.
Adonis entered Thailand on February 8, 2025, via Phuket International Airport on flight WK50 and was granted permission to stay until April 8, 2025. However, he was discovered hiding in Kathu District, Phuket, where he was apprehended on March 26, 2025. The French Embassy's Police and Security Affairs Section in Thailand coordinated with the Royal Thai Police for his arrest and subsequent extradition to France.
These arrests highlight the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in Thailand as they confront the dual threats of drug trafficking and violent crime. The authorities are ramping up efforts to ensure that those who seek to exploit the region for illegal activities are swiftly brought to justice.
As the crackdown on illegal drugs continues, both local and international agencies are working together to prevent further incidents and protect the safety of residents and tourists alike. The recent arrests serve as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and cooperation in tackling transnational crime.
