Phuket–
Customs officers and police at Phuket International Airport arrested a 28‑year‑old Saudi Arabian man after discovering ketamine capsules hidden inside his underwear as he attempted to leave the country.
Relevant officers told the Phuket Express that the suspect, identified only as Mr. Safi, was intercepted at the international departures terminal after passing through a body scanner that flagged irregularities. A detailed search revealed a white cloth pouch concealed in his underwear containing 63 red‑and‑white capsules filled with ketamine powder, weighing approximately 32 grams. Officers also seized two iPhones as evidence.
Authorities reported that Safi had already checked in with Etihad Airways, loading two pieces of luggage before proceeding through immigration. His attempt to smuggle the drugs was thwarted when the scanner alerted officials, prompting a thorough inspection. Chemical testing confirmed the powder as ketamine, a Category 2 narcotic under Thai law.
Safi was charged with possession and attempted export of a controlled substance without authorization, as well as violations of the Customs Act (2017). He was handed over to investigators at Sakhu Police Station for further legal proceedings.
Police Colonel Salan Santisasanakul, Chief of Sakhu Police, said that Thai authorities remain vigilant in monitoring airports to prevent the country from being used as a transit hub for international drug trafficking. He added that investigators are now working to determine whether the suspect is linked to a wider smuggling network.
