British Man Arrested in Pattaya over Alleged Role in Phuket Cartel Assassination

Thai police have arrested a 33-year-old British national accused of helping organize a cartel-linked assassination of an Iraqi man in Phuket earlier this year.

The suspect, identified only as Mr. Amir, was detained during a raid on a luxury condominium in Nong Prue, Pattaya. The operation was carried out by officers from the Crime Suppression Division under the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) following a warrant issued by the Phuket Provincial Court.

Authorities said the British man faces charges including assisting premeditated murder, illegal possession and carrying of firearms, and facilitating the discharge of weapons in a public place.

The investigation relates to the fatal shooting of a 24-year-old Iraqi national on Siriraj Road in Patong on February 7, 2026. The attack occurred in broad daylight and caused panic among tourists and residents in the area.

Police later arrested the alleged gunman, a Colombian national, near Phuket International Airport. Officers reportedly seized two firearms, ammunition, and the motorcycle believed to have been used during the attack.

Investigators concluded that the killing was allegedly a planned contract assassination connected to internal conflicts within an international drug cartel rather than a spontaneous dispute.

According to police, evidence collected during the investigation suggested that Mr. Amir acted as a coordinator in the operation. Authorities believe he helped obtain weapons for the Colombian suspect and assisted with logistical arrangements connected to the shooting.

After the murder, the British suspect allegedly fled Phuket and relocated to Pattaya. Police later tracked his movements and carried out the arrest at the condominium residence.

Several items believed to be connected to the investigation were reportedly seized during the operation.

During initial questioning, Mr. Amir denied all allegations.

He has since been transferred to Patong Police Station, where legal proceedings will continue. Investigators said the case remains active as authorities continue examining the wider international network allegedly linked to the cartel and its activities in Thailand.