A 22-year-old Thai man has been arrested for aggressively targeting tourists on the popular island of Koh Phangan, pressuring them to purchase methamphetamine and crystal meth for beach parties. The brazen dealer, who showed no signs of remorse, reportedly declared, “Drug dealing, it’s the way of a man.”
According to the Tourist Police Division in Surat Thani, Mr. Sarayut, a local Thai national, was apprehended at around 4pm on 24 June 2025. Officers caught him red-handed with over 70 grams of crystal methamphetamine and 150 meth pills, alongside a black Honda PCX motorcycle used in the offence.
The arrest took place along Soi Siam Residence, near Village 4 in Koh Phangan Subdistrict. Acting on reports from concerned travellers and locals, police tracked Sarayut after multiple sightings of him tailing tourists and persistently urging them to buy drugs.
Meth and Beach Raves: A Dangerous Combo
Koh Phangan is internationally known for its Full Moon Party culture, drawing thousands of backpackers and partygoers each month. However, the darker side of the island’s nightlife occasionally surfaces — this case being a troubling example of illegal drug sales targeting foreign tourists.
Tourist Police reported that Sarayut would approach travellers at popular gathering points, such as beachside bars and party venues, offering narcotics under the guise of enhancing their island experience. Witnesses said he often followed people on foot or by motorcycle, pressuring them to buy “ice” (crystal meth) and yaba pills.
Following his arrest, Sarayut admitted to buying the drugs from an unidentified Thai male for 10,000 baht (approximately S$370). Despite the charges, he displayed a disturbing lack of remorse, reportedly smiling during questioning and claiming that drug trafficking was “normal” for young men.
Serious Charges, Ongoing Investigation
Authorities charged Sarayut with possession of Category 1 narcotics with intent to sell, a serious offence under Thai law. He was transferred to Koh Phangan Police Station for further investigation and prosecution. Officers are also working to identify the supplier who provided the drugs to him.
This case underscores ongoing concerns over drug-related crime in Thailand’s tourist hotspots, especially as the nation tries to maintain its reputation as a safe destination. The Tourist Police Bureau reaffirmed their commitment to cracking down on drug syndicates exploiting the tourism economy.
Travellers visiting Thailand, especially during large-scale beach festivals and rave events, are strongly advised to avoid engaging with individuals offering illicit substances, as Thai drug laws carry strict penalties, including long prison terms.