Police Region 8 executed a major operation that led to the arrest of key members of the Kaeng Chaiburi Network, a prominent drug trafficking syndicate. The crackdown unfolded just three months after the release of the suspects from prison, who had been attempting to distribute 10 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and 14,000 methamphetamine pills.
The operation took place on March 12, at 11:00 a.m., at Bang Sawang Police Station in Surat Thani province. Major General Saranyu Chamnanrat, the Deputy Commissioner of Police Region 8 and Deputy Director of the Narcotics Suppression Division Region 8, along with Major General Lertchai Champathong, the Commander of the Investigation Division Region 8, oversaw the arrests of five individuals.
Among those detained were Pirom, known as “Kaeng,” aged 46; Kittisak, also called “M,” aged 42; Sirikanya, or “Oil,” aged 45; Chamnong, or “Khaek,” aged 43; and Surasak, nicknamed “Loan,” aged 36.
The police seized a large quantity of drugs, including 10 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, 14,000 methamphetamine pills, along with assets worth 150,000 baht (approximately US$4,440), a Toyota vehicle, a motorcycle, and five mobile phones.
Major General Saranyu noted that the operation stemmed from intelligence gathered on March 9, which revealed that the Kaeng Chaiburi Network was operating across the Phra Saeng, Chaiburi, and Plai Phraya districts. Following this, Pirom, Kittisak, and Sirikanya were apprehended.
Further investigation exposed that these suspects had ordered Khaek and Loan to transport 6 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine along Southern Road in Moo 3, Bang Sawang subdistrict, Phra Saeng district.
With this information, the police arranged for further action, ultimately discovering an additional 4 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and the methamphetamine pills hidden in an oil palm plantation in the area.
Kaeng, a central figure in the network, has a long history with law enforcement. He was first arrested in 2012 by Mueang Krabi Police for illegal possession of firearms and drugs. Later that year, he was arrested again in Surat Thani for drug trafficking.
Kaeng had previously been caught with 5 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine by the Narcotics Suppression Division Region 8 roughly 12 years ago. After serving time, he was released just three months prior to his recent arrest.
All suspects have been handed over to the investigators at Bang Sawang Police Station for further legal proceedings, marking a significant victory in the ongoing fight against drug trafficking in Thailand.
13 March 2025
