DOPA Special Unit Arrests Two Suspected Drug Dealers in Patong

Two suspected drug dealers were arrested in Patong during a special operation carried out by officers from Thailand’s Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA). Authorities seized 16 grams of crystal methamphetamine along with 375 methamphetamine pills during the raid.

The operation took place on the evening of May 11, although details were officially released by Phuket’s Public Relations Department the following night. Officials did not disclose the exact location of the raid in Patong.

The operation was led by two deputy district chiefs from Kathu District, while Phuket Governor Nirun Phongsitthithavorn and Provincial Clerk Rungrueng Thimabutr were identified as the officials who authorized the mission.

Both suspects are facing three charges: possession of Category 1 narcotics with intent to sell, illegal distribution of Category 1 narcotics, and drug consumption.

Following the arrests, DOPA officers transferred the suspects and the seized evidence to investigators at Patong Police Station for further legal proceedings.

Thailand’s Department of Provincial Administration, once considered primarily a civilian administrative agency, has increasingly expanded its law enforcement role in recent years, particularly under the leadership of Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. During this period, specialized tactical teams commonly referred to as “DOPA SWAT” were established to support crackdowns on crime and narcotics.

Although the ministry’s official volunteer force remains the OrSor units, often known as the “White Elephants,” photographs released highlighted the growing distinction between standard volunteers and DOPA’s heavily equipped tactical teams.

In many cases, DOPA officers now conduct operations independently before handing suspects over to local police for formal investigation and prosecution, a practice that has occasionally led to unusual or controversial situations.