Thai police have arrested a Nigerian national, Nwaiwu Ifeanyi, suspected to be a major figure in a drug trafficking network, after uncovering about 1.5 million baht (over ₦67 million) hidden in the ceiling of his bathroom during a late-night raid.
According to a report by Khaosod English, the operation was carried out on Saturday and led to the arrest of three other suspects believed to be linked to the same drug ring. Authorities also seized drugs, cash, and jewellery during the raid.
The 46-year-old Nigerian is accused of supplying cocaine within the Thai capital, Bangkok. Police reportedly tracked his movements before arresting him near Silom Soi 1, where about 27 grams of cocaine were recovered from him.
Three additional suspects were arrested on charges of drug possession. They include a Swiss national, Thomas Giubibini, alongside two Thai nationals, Thanayot Asawamethi, 35, and Nattawat Wangkitjinda, 34.
In total, police seized approximately 30 grams of cocaine, a vehicle, 1.5 million baht in cash, foreign currency valued at 15,000 baht, and jewellery estimated at 400,000 baht.
Investigators revealed that Ifeanyi had been living in Thailand for over 17 years under a family visa obtained through marriage to a Thai national. However, authorities suspect the marriage may have been arranged as a cover for his alleged illegal activities.
Police further disclosed that the suspect allegedly coordinated drug sales through encrypted messaging platforms. Officers reportedly infiltrated these channels, enabling them to monitor his activities and plan the operation that led to his arrest.
During the raid, Ifeanyi was said to have resisted arrest and had to be physically restrained before later allegedly confessing to the charges.
The development comes less than three months after another Nigerian in Thailand, Ukoma Nuzbech, was arrested for allegedly absconding while on bail in connection with a separate drug trafficking case in Koh Pha Ngan.
Nuzbech had initially been arrested in March 2025 after allegedly selling 25.71 grams of cocaine to an undercover police officer. He was later granted bail pending trial but reportedly failed to appear in court, went into hiding, and allegedly continued involvement in drug-related activities.
Authorities say investigations into the latest case are ongoing, as efforts continue to dismantle the broader drug network.
