Phuket —
A coordinated investigation by Thailand’s Tourist Police Division 2, under Subdivision 3, has led to the arrest of a Russian national suspected of distributing illegal narcotics in Phuket’s popular tourist areas.
The Phuket Tourist Police told the Phuket Express that the operation was launched following social media reports of suspicious stickers affixed to utility poles across Phuket as we reported previously here, believed to be linked to drug advertising.
Undercover agents infiltrated a large Telegram group suspected of facilitating drug transactions. Through digital surveillance and covert communication, officers successfully arranged a sting operation to intercept a drug delivery.
This week an undercover officer contacted Mr. Anton, a 31-year-old Russian man, to arrange a handoff. Anton arrived at the designated location carrying narcotics and was immediately apprehended by police.
A search revealed several packets of drugs on his person, with additional packets found at the scene. Forensic testing conducted by the Narcotics Suppression Division 4 (Phuket) confirmed the substance to be cocaine.
Authorities have charged Anton with unauthorized possession and attempted distribution of a Category 2 narcotic (cocaine), in violation of Thai drug laws. He was transferred to Chalong Police Station for further legal proceedings.
Further investigation into Tiutiaev’s documentation revealed he held a student visa issued by a private educational institution in Phuket. Officials also discovered documents indicating his claimed role as an advisor to a national anti-narcotics committee—though the agency declined to disclose further details.
