A 40-year-old Singaporean man has been arrested in Bangkok after Thai authorities allegedly found crystal meth, chemical substances and explosive-related materials in his possession.
The man, identified only as Joel in Thai media reports, was reportedly arrested on Sep. 4 following a months-long investigation by Thai authorities.
Police also allegedly found evidence on his mobile phone indicating that he had purchased potentially dangerous substances through the dark web.
Drugs and chemicals allegedly found
According to Thai media reports, officers seized about 3g of crystal methamphetamine, 200,000 baht (around S$7,700), potassium nitrate, two detonators and various chemical reagents during the operation.
Police reportedly became interested in the Singaporean after receiving information that a man matching his description had a history of using crystal meth.
Investigators subsequently examined his online activity and allegedly found evidence of orders involving highly toxic substances.
Alleged dark web purchases
Thai authorities reportedly discovered that Joel had ordered around 20g of a highly toxic substance through the dark web.
Reports claimed the substance was described as being exceptionally potent, while another substance allegedly ordered by him was associated with animal euthanasia.
According to The Nation, police found evidence suggesting that payment for the items had already been made.
The discovery prompted authorities to investigate further into the man’s alleged intentions and whether the substances could have posed a danger to other people.
Police reportedly tracked him for months
Thai authorities reportedly spent more than three months attempting to locate the Singaporean.
MGR Online reported that he was identified as a wanted person with outstanding warrants in Singapore and had a history involving criminal and drug-related offences.
Investigators reportedly learnt that he regularly visited nightlife venues and eventually spoke to a hostess who was familiar with him.
The woman allegedly told police that Joel could behave violently and erratically. She reportedly claimed that he had previously threatened her with a knife and had also spoken about a plan involving poisoning a water tank.
These claims have been reported by Thai media and have not been independently established in court.
Arrest at luxury condominium
Narcotics officers eventually traced the Singaporean to a luxury condominium in Bangkok.
Police reportedly entered the unit and arrested him during the operation.
When questioned about the substances allegedly ordered through the dark web, Joel reportedly claimed that they were intended for his own use rather than to harm other people.
He allegedly told authorities that he had ordered a large quantity because he wanted to ensure he would have a sufficiently strong dose for himself.
Thai authorities also examined the explosive-related materials allegedly found in his possession.
Their analysis reportedly concluded that the materials seized were insufficient to produce a functioning bomb.
Charges expected in Thailand
Thai authorities said the man is expected to face charges relating to narcotics use and overstaying his visa.
Police are reportedly still assessing whether further charges should be brought over the possession of explosive-related materials or hazardous substances.
The investigation remains ongoing, and the allegations against the Singaporean have not been tested in court.
The case also involves potential cross-border legal issues, given reports of outstanding warrants in Singapore and the alleged offences taking place in Thailand.