The suspect, identified only as ‘Mr Bachir’, was taken into custody by Phuket Immigration officers working in coordination with the Crime Suppression Division of Immigration Bureau 6.
He is wanted in France for alleged involvement in a major international drug trafficking network and was the subject of an outstanding arrest warrant for “possession of narcotics for consumption and illegal trafficking”.
According to officials, the arrest followed a request for cooperation from the French Embassy. Investigators tracked the suspect to a location in Phuket, where he had been hiding to evade capture.
Phuket Immigration worked with Immigration Bureau 6 and the Crime Suppression Division to locate and apprehend the fugitive.
Mr Bachir reportedly confessed to being involved in drug smuggling operations in France and admitted to fleeing the country to avoid arrest. He had been living covertly on the island until his capture.
Authorities said their operations target individuals who pose a threat to public safety, including those operating call centres, nominee companies, and employment scams that damage Thailand’s economy and reputation.
The arrest is part of a wider crackdown ordered by national police and immigration leaders, including Immigration Bureau Commissioner Pol Lt Gen Phanumas Boonnalak and Immigration Bureau 6 Commander Pol Maj Gen Songprot Sirisukha, who have pledged to root out foreign nationals engaged in transnational crimes, including drug trafficking, illegal business activities and scams.
In a statement, Phuket Immigration said the bureau remains committed to protecting both residents and tourists and ensuring Phuket remains a safe destination.
At last report, Bachir was in custody awaiting extradition proceedings.