A Nigerian national has been arrested in Bangkok over his alleged role in a cocaine distribution ring operating across the city’s nightlife districts.
Authorities identified the suspect as Nwaiwu Ifeanyi Placid, who was apprehended during a targeted operation near Silom Soi 1. Police recovered about 27 grammes of cocaine at the scene.
The arrest was confirmed by Metropolitan Police Bureau chief Sayam Boonsom, who said the operation was part of a broader crackdown on the network.
Three others were also taken into custody, including Thomas Giubibini and two Thai nationals — Thanayot Asawamethi and Nattawat Wangkitjinda — all facing drug possession charges.
Police said items seized during the raid included about 30 grammes of cocaine, a vehicle, cash totaling 1.5 million baht, foreign currencies worth 15,000 baht, and jewellery valued at approximately 400,000 baht.
Investigators linked the arrests to earlier operations against the same syndicate, noting that on October 26 last year, officers “posing as construction workers dismantled a Nana-based network and arrested nine Nigerian suspects.”
Further intelligence pointed to another Nigerian, identified only as “Patrick,” believed to be a key figure in the network, allegedly running operations in Thailand for over 17 years.
Authorities said they “infiltrated the chat groups and tracked his movements” before carrying out arrests.
Deputy commissioner Theeradet Thamsuthee added that the suspect resisted arrest but was subdued and later “confessed to the charges.”
Police confirmed that investigations are ongoing, with all suspects currently in custody.
