Bangkok police have arrested a 48-year-old Nigerian man, identified as Danial Okeke, over allegations that he possessed about 10.21 kilograms of heroin concealed in boxes of a popular soap brand and plastic-wrapped packages.
Okeke was arrested on October 1 after police stopped the white Bangkok-registered Toyota Avanza he was driving at the Ratchada-Tha Phra junction in Talat Phlu, Thon Buri. Authorities also allege that he had entered Thailand illegally.
Heroin allegedly hidden in soap boxes
According to police, the arrest followed an operation involving Talat Phlu police investigators and traffic officers monitoring suspected illegal activities in the area.
Officers reportedly became suspicious when they saw the Toyota arrive at the junction with Okeke driving. After identifying themselves, they searched the vehicle and allegedly discovered a large suitcase containing several soap boxes.
Police said heroin wrapped in foil was found inside the boxes, with between one and three packages placed in each box.
Officers also allegedly recovered 70 plastic-wrapped packages of heroin from a carrier bag. The total net weight of the seized drugs was approximately 10.21kg.
Other items reportedly seized included the large suitcase, two mobile phones and the Toyota Avanza.
Okeke also accused of illegal entry
Police said Okeke could not produce a passport when his documents were checked. He reportedly provided his current address as Soi Rangsit-Nakhon Nayok 28/1, Prachathipat, Thanyaburi district, Pathum Thani.
He was initially charged with illegally selling a Category 1 narcotic, heroin, for commercial purposes and in circumstances alleged to facilitate its spread among the public. He also faces an allegation of unlawfully entering Thailand as a foreign national.
The operation was ordered by Pol Col Jatuphum Mudsakhen, superintendent of Talat Phlu Police Station; Pol Lt Col Kittisak Yimyaem, deputy superintendent for investigations; and Pol Lt Col Phaithoon Upala, deputy superintendent for traffic.
Okeke and the seized items were subsequently handed over to Talat Phlu investigators for further legal proceedings.
Police said investigations would continue into the alleged transnational drug-trafficking network.
