Two Men in Chiang Rai Caught with B60m of ‘Methamphetamine’

400,000 methamphetamine pills, also knows as yaba, worth about 60 million baht

CHIANG RAI – On Monday evening Chiang Rai police arrested two Hmong men, Chulajak Ritchaikul, 31, and Somsak Sae Lee, 25 and seized approximately 400,000 methamphetamine pills, also knows as yaba, worth about 60 million baht if sold on the streets.

Provincial Police Region 5 commander Pol Lt Suthep Detraksa said the suspects were apprehended while heading to Chiang Saen district in a pickup truck. Police stopped the vehicle and found the drugs in two bags inside the truck.

Chulajak Ritchaikul, 31, and Somsak Sae Lee, 25  confessed they were to be paid 300,000 baht to transport the illegal drugs from the border with Myanmar to a Hmong man, known only as Gao, who was waiting for them in Chiang Saen.

Following the arrests, police ordered Mr Chulajak to contact Gao to set up a rendezvous. Gao, however, saw through the police plan and did not show up.

Chiang Rai Police have charged Mr Chulachak and Mr Somsak with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

The suspects were being held in custody at Chiang Saen police station.