Nakhon Phanom—
On May 27th, 2024, Ban Phaeng police officers received a report from two law enforcement officers who were allegedly attacked by a drug smuggling group of 30 individuals in Ban Phaeng, Nakhon Phanom.
Sgt. Pramet Purachano, 27, and Sgt. Worapithun Dechasathien, 30, reported to the Ban Phaeng police that they were tracking a drug smuggling group along the Nakhon Phanom border. At 7:30 AM, while patrolling the Mekong River, they spotted a long-tailed boat carrying numerous black rucksacks in Ban Phaeng.
The officers approached the boat for inspection, suspecting it was involved in smuggling activities. However, the sailors attempted to flee and called for reinforcements, leading to an attack by a group of 30 individuals. Sgt. Pramet and Sgt. Worapithun managed to escape and received support from nearby police officers.
The officers reported that the drug smuggling network at the Nakhon Phanom border is notorious for its lawlessness, engaging in numerous felonies, including vehicle theft and drug smuggling.
The stolen goods and vehicles are reportedly sold to neighboring country tradesmen at commission rates ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 baht each. This lucrative trade has attracted many locals and juveniles to the criminal group.
The police face significant challenges due to the extensive porous border, which provides numerous opportunities for the suspects to commit crimes. Additionally, the smugglers are reportedly bringing cannabis products from the neighboring country and distributing them illegally in Thailand, taking advantage of lenient cannabis laws.
No suspects have been arrested as of press time, according to TPN.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
