A Nigerian national, believed to be a major figure in the cocaine trade on the popular tourist island of Koh Phangan, Thailand, was arrested on the evening of March 1, 2025. The operation took place near the Pantip Plaza market in Moo 1, Koh Phangan, as part of Thailand’s ongoing fight against drug trafficking in its major tourist areas.
Tourist police had received intelligence about a Black foreign national distributing narcotics to tourists. Their investigation led them to 37-year-old Ugonna J. (surname withheld), who was monitored before a covert operation was launched.
Undercover officers, posing as potential buyers, contacted Ugonna through WhatsApp to arrange a cocaine deal. The meeting was set up near the bustling Pantip Plaza market, where surveillance teams were positioned around the area. When Ugonna arrived and handed over the drugs, police confirmed the substance was cocaine before arresting him on the spot.
The operation resulted in the seizure of 25.71 grams of cocaine, valued at approximately 240,000 baht (USD 7,000). Authorities also confiscated a black Mazda 2 and two mobile phones, which could hold key evidence related to Ugonna’s alleged drug network.
Ugonna now faces serious charges, including possession of a Category 2 narcotic with intent to sell and illegal narcotic distribution. He is currently in custody at Koh Phangan Police Station as investigators continue to build their case.
Further questioning revealed that Ugonna was suspected of being a major supplier on Koh Phangan, with his network reportedly extending to other tourist hotspots like Phuket and Krabi. He allegedly sold cocaine in one-gram packages for 6,000 baht (USD 175) each and used couriers to transport the drugs to avoid detection by law enforcement.
This arrest is seen as a significant victory in the battle against drug trafficking in Thailand’s popular tourist destinations. It also underscores the use of innovative tactics, such as undercover operations and digital communication platforms like WhatsApp, in tackling the complex issue of drug distribution. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to dismantle the drug network.