Nakhon Phanom: Thai officials have successfully coordinated with Lao authorities to arrest a significant drug dealer operating across the Mekong River, who was responsible for sending drugs back into Thailand. The investigation revealed the existence of a gang involved, who were allocating a 5-10% share of their sales.
According to Thai News Agency, officials apprehended Mr. Piyanan, a 37-year-old major drug dealer, who was hiding in Laos near the Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge 3 in Nakhon Phanom Province. He faces charges of ‘jointly distributing drugs, colluding by agreement of two or more persons to commit a serious drug offense’. During the operation, authorities seized 7,970,000 methamphetamine pills.
Investigations into Mr. Piyanan’s activities since 2022 identified him as a key figure in orchestrating and coordinating efforts between Thai and Lao drug trafficking networks. He utilized the neighboring country’s border route as a transit path for drugs into Thailand. Recognized as a major trafficker in the northeastern region, Mr. Piyanan played a commanding role, with his operations accounting for a 5-10% market share of methamphetamine trade.
The successful arrest required the cooperation of the Lao PDR, which assisted in tracking down and arresting Mr. Piyanan after he illegally fled into their territory. The collaborative effort aims to ensure Mr. Piyanan is returned to Thailand to face legal action.