South African Tourist Arrested at Phuket Airport After Ammunition Found in Luggage

A South African traveler was arrested at Phuket International Airport after airport security officers discovered ammunition and a firearm magazine inside his checked luggage during a routine screening.

According to Sakhu Police, the incident took place at around 10 p.m. on Saturday, July 25, in the international departures area. Security personnel detected suspicious objects while scanning outbound baggage with X-ray equipment and immediately alerted police officers stationed at the airport.

The suspect, identified only as Mr. Morne, 27, was taken into custody after officers recovered six rounds of ammunition and one firearm magazine from his luggage. Authorities confirmed that no firearm was found during the inspection.

The South African national was transported to Sakhu Police Station, where investigators charged him with offenses under Thailand’s firearms and ammunition legislation.

Police said the suspect was informed of his legal rights following the arrest, and the South African Embassy was notified through the appropriate diplomatic channels.

As of the latest update, neither the suspect nor the embassy had issued a public statement regarding the case.