The suspect, identified only as ‘Mr Igor’, 46, was apprehended following a coordinated investigation by Phuket Immigration in cooperation with the Foreign Affairs Division of the Royal Thai Police and the Russian Consulate in Phuket.
‘Igor’ was reportedly a key figure in an international drug gang and had been selling illegal drugs to customers in Russia via online platforms. His alleged criminal activities led to the issuance of a Red Notice by Interpol, identifying him as a major suspect in a transnational drug case and a serious criminal organisation.
Authorities said the suspect had fled to Phuket to avoid arrest and was residing in the province illegally. He was arrested on charges of overstaying his visa.
Phuket Immigration officers together with the investigation team, tracked down and arrested ‘Igor’. He has since been handed over to the investigation team to proceed with legal action and deportation.
The arrest is part of an ongoing nationwide crackdown on foreign nationals involved in illegal activities, following directives from the Royal Thai Police and the Immigration Bureau to target those working illegally, engaging in transnational crimes, or posing threats to public safety, explained a police report.