Law
Authorities Seize 500 Million Baht in Crystal Methamphetamine in Phrae
Police in Phrae province intercepted a major drug shipment of 500 kilograms of crystal meth hidden among used auto parts in a truck.
On September 18, 2026, officials in Phrae province, led by Governor Somchai Lertprasittiphan and local police commanders, announced the seizure of 500 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine (ice). The illicit cargo, valued at approximately 500 million baht, was discovered during a routine inspection at the Huai Rai drug checkpoint.
According to reports from Khaosod Online, the drugs were found concealed within 20 sacks hidden among used automotive spare parts inside a blue Isuzu truck registered in Kalasin province. Authorities had been tracking intelligence regarding a large-scale drug trafficking operation moving narcotics from Chiang Rai toward the interior of Thailand. Following the discovery on September 16, two men were taken into custody for interrogation as police work to expand the investigation and identify other members of the trafficking network.
For residents and travelers, this incident highlights the ongoing efforts by Thai law enforcement to curb the movement of illegal substances through major transit routes. While the checkpoint operation successfully prevented this shipment from reaching its destination, the investigation remains active. It is not yet confirmed if further arrests will follow or if this seizure is linked to other recent drug interdiction efforts in the northern region. Travelers passing through provincial checkpoints should expect standard inspections as part of these heightened security measures.
