Drug trafficking network crackdown leads to Cha-am arrests

Drug trafficking network crackdown leads to arrests in Cha-am, assets worth 183 million baht seized

Police have arrested two alleged leaders of a major drug trafficking network in Cha-am, seizing assets worth more than 183 million baht in what authorities describe as a significant development in an ongoing crackdown.

The operation follows a large-scale investigation into the “Tum Ngamnamjai” network, which began on 26 December 2025 under the direction of Provincial Police Region 2. At that time, eight suspects were detained and a substantial quantity of assets was confiscated, prompting further enquiries into the group’s structure and financial activities.

Investigators later identified the alleged key figures behind the distribution of narcotics into Bangkok and Thailand’s eastern region as a married couple, named as Akkadet and Chayathornphat. Police said the pair used a range of tactics to avoid detection, including frequently changing vehicles and moving between temporary accommodation.

Arrest in Cha-am follows intelligence-led operation

On 22 April 2026, officers received intelligence that the couple were planning to flee to Koh Tao in Surat Thani province. Acting on the information, police surrounded a rented property in Cha-am, where the suspects were arrested while preparing to relocate assets ahead of their planned escape.

Items seized at the property included cash, luxury watches and branded handbags. Authorities said the arrests were the result of continued surveillance and coordination between investigative units working to dismantle the network.

Financial investigation reveals extensive asset trail

Police have expanded their investigation into the network’s financial operations, uncovering a wide range of assets believed to be linked to drug trafficking activities.

According to officials, 10 bank accounts associated with the suspects recorded a combined turnover of more than 600 million baht. A further 140 accounts connected to the network were found to hold assets exceeding 50 million baht.

In addition, authorities seized a house and land valued at around 20 million baht, four luxury vehicles worth approximately 4 million baht, and gold assets valued at more than 1.4 million baht.

Police said the total value of assets seized in connection with the case has now surpassed 183 million baht.

Investigation continues into wider network

Officials described the arrests as a key breakthrough in efforts to dismantle a drug trafficking network that had been under close monitoring by Region 2 police.

Investigators are continuing to trace financial links and identify additional suspects connected to the operation. Authorities said further arrests are expected as the investigation progresses, adding that those involved in organised drug trafficking would face legal action.