Surat Thani –
Thai authorities have dismantled what they call a major drug trafficking operation on Koh Phangan, arresting a 42‑year‑old Israeli national resturant owner who allegedly ran a mafia‑style network supplying narcotics to foreign tourists.
The suspect, identified only as Mr. Alfasi, owner of a beachfront restaurant in Haad Hin Kong, was taken into custody following a coordinated sting operation led by the Tourist Police.
The raid was part of a broader crackdown on crime during Valentine’s Day and the Lunar New Year period. Acting on intelligence, undercover agents staged a controlled purchase that led to Alfasi’s arrest.
A later search of his property and luggage revealed large quantities of narcotics concealed in hidden compartments, with an estimated street value of 50 million baht.
Investigators reported that Alfasi operated under the code name “Israel Group”, selling drugs exclusively to foreign clients. Transactions were arranged via WhatsApp Business, where orders were placed and delivery locations shared.
Drugs were dropped at designated spots, said relevant authorities, while payments were left at separate locations specified by the dealer. Messages were automatically deleted within minutes to erase evidence.
The suspect did not immediately release a statement or plea to the media.
