On August 16, 2024, police apprehended a South Korean national, Mr. Jimjung Kim, in Chonburi Province following an investigation into drug-related offenses. Mr. Kim, aged 45, had initially evaded authorities by entering Thailand through unofficial routes.
According to authorities, Pol. Lt. Col. Piyaphong Ensan, Detective Inspector with the Royal Thai Army, along with tourist police officers, discovered that Mr. Kim had been living in the Jomtien area. A search warrant was obtained from the Pattaya Provincial Court on August 14, 2024, but Mr. Kim was not found at the address listed. Further investigation revealed that he had relocated to Village No. 12 in Nong Prue Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District.
Upon inspection of the new residence in coordination with Chonburi Immigration, officers located Mr. Kim and conducted a passport check. No evidence of legal entry into Thailand was found. Mr. Kim admitted to entering the country through natural channels from Sa Kaeo Province on the Thai-Cambodian border.
During a subsequent search of the residence, officers discovered 1.5 grams of crystal meth, 0.4 grams of ecstasy, and drug paraphernalia. Mr. Kim acknowledged ownership of the drugs.
Mr. Kim was then taken to a condominium for a search under the Pattaya Provincial Court’s warrant, but no additional illegal items were found. He has been detained and is facing charges including illegal entry into Thailand, illegal use and possession of methamphetamine and ecstasy. The case is under further investigation at the Nong Prue Police Station.
