Italian Tourist Held After Drugs Found in Koh Samui Prison Visit
Italian Tourist Held After Drugs Found in Koh Samui Prison Visit
KOH SAMUI, June 5, 2026 — Thai police have arrested a 46-year-old Italian national after he allegedly attempted to smuggle heroin into a detention cell at Bo Phut Police Station on Koh Samui, where a friend was being held pending deportation.
The suspect, identified only as Domenico, was detained on the evening of June 3 after officers discovered drugs concealed inside a beverage bottle he brought during a visit to an Italian detainee.
According to police, the suspect arrived at the station carrying a drink bottle and requested permission to visit his friend. During a routine inspection, officers became suspicious after noticing that the bottle cap appeared unusual and had not been properly sealed.
A closer examination revealed a small package hidden inside the bottle. Police said they found 0.33 grams of heroin wrapped in a condom and immediately took the man into custody.
Investigators from Bo Phut Police Station subsequently coordinated with immigration authorities to expand the investigation. A search of the suspect’s rented accommodation in Bo Phut uncovered 12 packets containing heroin and crystal methamphetamine hidden inside a wardrobe, along with plastic bags believed to have been used for repackaging narcotics.
During questioning, the suspect allegedly admitted purchasing drugs from a Thai supplier known as “Pe” in the Mareet area, paying around 4,000 baht per transaction. He reportedly told police that he used the drugs himself and also supplied them to friends within his social circle.
Police said the suspect further admitted that the heroin concealed in the beverage bottle was intended for a detained Italian friend identified only as “Saga.”
Authorities have charged the suspect with possession of Category 1 narcotics, including heroin and crystal methamphetamine, with intent to distribute. He also faces additional charges related to attempting to deliver heroin to a detainee inside a police detention facility.
The suspect has been transferred to investigators at Bo Phut Police Station for further legal proceedings. If convicted, he could face imprisonment under Thailand’s narcotics laws before eventual deportation.
Police said the investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to identify and locate others connected to the case, including the alleged supplier.
