Nigerian, Belgian Arrested in Thailand Over Alleged Cocaine Sales and Visa Violations
- 19 hours ago
- 1 min read
Thai authorities have arrested a Nigerian national, Samuel Egbujonuma Silas, and a Belgian citizen, Bruno Trunfio, during separate anti-drug operations in Phuket as part of an intensified crackdown on foreign nationals allegedly involved in criminal activities.
According to local reports, Silas was apprehended by Tourist Police officers near a clothing outlet in Patong, a major tourist district in Phuket. Authorities allegedly recovered about 10 grams of cocaine during the operation.
Investigators reportedly used undercover officers to monitor and infiltrate suspected drug networks operating within foreign communities in the area before making the arrest.
Photos circulating online showed the Nigerian suspect in police custody while officers searched his residence for additional evidence linked to the investigation.
Thai police also claimed that Silas had overstayed his visa for more than 18 months prior to his arrest.
In a separate operation, Belgian national Bruno Trunfio was taken into custody after officers allegedly found 2.9 grams of cocaine in his possession. Authorities said investigations revealed that he had remained in Thailand illegally for over two years after his visa expired.
Both men were transferred to Patong Police Station, where they were reportedly charged with illegal possession and distribution of Category 2 narcotics as well as immigration-related offences tied to visa overstays.
The latest arrests come amid a series of recent operations involving foreign nationals in Thailand. Earlier this week, another Nigerian identified as Louis Junio was reportedly detained during an undercover narcotics investigation.
In recent weeks, Thai authorities have also arrested several other Nigerians over separate allegations ranging from financial crimes to drug trafficking offences.
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