South Korean Drug Trafficking Suspect Arrested in Phuket After Nearly Eight Years Overstay

Thai authorities have arrested a South Korean national wanted under an Interpol Red Notice for alleged involvement in fraud and international drug trafficking. The suspect, identified only as Mr. Lee, was found living in Phuket after overstaying his visa for almost 3,000 days.

The operation was carried out by officers from Immigration Division 6 in cooperation with the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) and South Korean law enforcement agencies. Investigators tracked the suspect to a luxury condominium in Phuket after receiving intelligence from international partners.

According to authorities, Mr. Lee was the subject of Interpol Red Notice No. A-8537/8-2018, issued on August 13, 2018, in connection with allegations of fraud and illegal drug import and export activities.

Investigators claim that beginning in early 2018, Mr. Lee and his associates defrauded victims of approximately 800 million won, equivalent to around 20 million baht. He is also accused of leading a criminal network that smuggled narcotics and cannabis from Thailand into South Korea.

The drugs were allegedly distributed through online channels and supplied to dealers within South Korea. Authorities further stated that Mr. Lee has an extensive criminal record, including cases related to fraud, assault and prostitution offences, with more than 23 cases reportedly linked to his name.

On August 12, officers raided the condominium where the suspect was staying and confirmed his identity through biometric data. According to police, Mr. Lee acknowledged that he was the individual named in the Interpol notice.

During the operation, authorities seized mobile phones and bank cards believed to be connected to the alleged criminal network.

Mr. Lee was formally charged with overstaying his visa by 2,992 days and transferred to investigators for further legal action. Thai authorities are now working with South Korean officials to continue the investigation and prepare possible extradition proceedings.