Surat Thani –
An intoxicated male Russian national was arrested for reckless driving on the Pha Ngan Island on Wednesday (March 26th).
The Koh Pha Ngan Tourist Police told the Phuket Express that reports surfaced regarding an incident involving Mr. Iurii, 38, a Russian citizen. He was observed recklessly driving a sedan on the Chalok Lam – Ban Thong Sala Road towards Ban Tai. Accompanied by a female Russian companion, Iurii’s erratic driving, which involved cutting off other vehicles, alarmed local residents enough to prompt calls to the Tourist Police hotline at 1155.
Tourist Police officers, patrolling the area at the time, identified the vehicle and pursued it until it came to a stop at an unregistered rental house in Ban Tai. Upon inspection of the car, officers also discovered two disposable e-cigarettes which are illegal in Thailand. He admitted ownership of the items.
Further questioning revealed that he had also recently used cocaine, another illegal substance under Thai law. His erratic behavior and unclear speech during the investigation further raised suspicions. He ultimately expressed remorse for his actions, apologizing to authorities.
Charges leveled against Mr. Iurii include illegal drug use (Category 2 narcotics—cocaine), reckless driving endangering public safety, and possession of untaxed e-cigarettes. The suspect was subsequently handed over to Koh Pha Ngan Police Station for legal proceedings.
