Samuel Egbujonuma Silas, a Nigerian national, was arrested by Thailand's Tourist Police in Patong, Phuket, during an undercover operation that led to the discovery of 10 grams of cocaine. The arrest occurred in front of a clothing store, according to Crime Asia, which reported that undercover officers had infiltrated networks of foreign nationals suspected of drug trafficking. Images reviewed by Peoples Gazette showed Silas in handcuffs as authorities searched his apartment. He had overstayed his visa by more than 18 months. In a separate raid in the same area, Belgian national Bruno Trunfio was arrested with 2.9 grams of cocaine. Trunfio had been in Thailand illegally for over two years after his permit expired. Both men were transferred to Patong Police Station and charged with unauthorized sale of Category 2 narcotics and visa violations. This follows recent arrests of other Nigerians in Thailand, including student Louis Junio, who was caught attempting to sell cocaine, and three others—Miracle Qluebube Duruawuzie, John Bosco Chukwukadibia and Chibueze Solomon Ozoma—arrested last week over an alleged money laundering ring. A 47-year-old Nigerian man named Patrick was also apprehended two weeks ago over a years-long cocaine smuggling operation.
Samuel Egbujonuma Silas was caught with 10 grams of cocaine in Phuket while living in Thailand illegally for over 18 months. Nigerian authorities have not confirmed if consular access has been granted to him. His arrest adds to a string of recent cases involving Nigerians detained abroad for drug-related crimes. This pattern raises concerns for Nigerian citizens living overseas under expired permits.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
