On the night of Saturday, March 1, 2025, a significant breakthrough was made in Thailand’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking when a Nigerian national, suspected of being a major player in the cocaine trade on Koh Phangan, was arrested. The suspect, 37-year-old Ugonna J. (surname withheld), was apprehended near the Pantip Plaza market in Moo 1, Koh Phangan subdistrict, in a covert operation involving Thailand’s tourist police.
This arrest highlights the continuing challenge posed by drug trafficking in popular tourist destinations, with Koh Phangan being a notorious hotspot for both drugs and tourism. The island, famed for its vibrant party scene and monthly full-moon parties, has long been a target for illegal drug operations.
The arrest followed an extensive investigation based on intelligence reports that identified a Black foreign national selling narcotics to tourists. The authorities acted swiftly, mobilising undercover officers to monitor the suspect’s activities. Ugonna’s arrest came after a well-coordinated operation that involved undercover officers contacting him via the popular messaging app WhatsApp, pretending to be interested buyers.
The suspect arranged a meeting at the bustling Pantip Plaza market, a location known for its high foot traffic and strategic for such operations. Surveillance teams were set up around the area, and Ugonna was observed handing over a package of cocaine to one of the officers posing as a customer. After confirming the substance was cocaine, police moved in swiftly and arrested him.
A search of Ugonna’s possession uncovered a significant amount of illicit drugs: 25.71 grams of cocaine, with an estimated street value of around 240,000 baht (roughly USD 7,000). Authorities also seized a black Mazda 2 vehicle and two mobile phones that could provide critical evidence to help authorities dismantle his drug network.
Following Ugonna’s arrest, investigators learned that he had been operating as a major cocaine supplier on Koh Phangan. His drug distribution network reportedly spanned across several other popular tourist destinations in Thailand, including Phuket and Krabi.
According to police sources, Ugonna allegedly sold cocaine in one-gram packages for 6,000 baht (approximately USD 175) each. Additionally, the suspect added surcharges for deliveries to other provinces, increasing the price for his customers. To avoid detection by law enforcement, Ugonna reportedly avoided using postal services to ship the drugs. Instead, he relied on couriers to transport the narcotics, a method that, while more expensive, he believed would offer more protection against authorities.
Thailand’s battle against drug trafficking, particularly in tourist areas, has been ongoing for many years. The country has struggled with narcotic trade in regions like Koh Phangan, which attract large numbers of tourists annually. These areas are often seen as lucrative markets for drug dealers due to the influx of foreign visitors seeking to partake in the party atmosphere.
