Nigerian Cocaine Kingpin Arrested in Thailand

A Nigerian national suspected of being a key player in the cocaine trade on the popular tourist island of Koh Phangan, Thailand, has been arrested.

The arrest, carried out on Saturday night, March 1, 2025, near the Pantip Plaza market in Moo 1, Koh Phangan subdistrict, highlights the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in Thailand’s tourist hotspots.

Tourist police, acting on intelligence reports about a Black foreign national selling narcotics to tourists, launched an investigation focusing on 37-year-old Ugonna J. (surname withheld).

Authorities discreetly monitored Ugonna’s activities before conducting a covert operation.

Using the messaging app WhatsApp, undercover officers contacted the suspect, pretending to be interested in purchasing cocaine.

A meeting was arranged near the busy Pantip Plaza market, a location strategically chosen for the operation.

Surveillance teams were strategically positioned around the designated area.

Ugonna arrived at the meeting point and handed over the illicit substance to an undercover officer. Police quickly confirmed the substance as cocaine before identifying themselves and apprehending the suspect.

The arrest resulted in a significant haul: 25.71 grams of cocaine, estimated to be worth approximately 240,000 baht (USD 7,000).

Authorities also seized a black Mazda 2 vehicle and two mobile phones, which may contain crucial evidence related to Ugonna’s alleged drug network.

The suspect faces serious charges, including possession of a Category 2 narcotic with intent to sell and illegal distribution of narcotics without permission.

He is currently in the custody of Koh Phangan Police Station, where investigators are continuing to build their case.

Subsequent questioning revealed more details about Ugonna’s alleged operations.

Investigators learned that he is suspected of being a major cocaine supplier on Koh Phangan, with his distribution network reportedly extending to other popular tourist destinations such as Phuket and Krabi.

He allegedly sold cocaine in one-gram packages for 6,000 baht (USD 175) each, adding surcharges for deliveries to other provinces.

To evade law enforcement, he reportedly avoided postal services and instead used couriers for drug transportation. This method, while more expensive, offered a perceived layer of protection from detection.

The arrest marks a significant victory for law enforcement in their ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in Thailand’s tourist areas.

It also highlights the innovative tactics, including undercover operations and the use of digital communication platforms like WhatsApp, employed by police to address this complex issue.

The investigation continues as authorities work to dismantle the drug network and bring all those involved to justice.