Suspected Nigerian Cocaine Kingpin Arrested in Bangkok
Suspected Nigerian Cocaine Kingpin Arrested in Bangkok
BANGKOK, June 12, 2026 — Thai police have arrested a Nigerian national suspected of leading a major cocaine trafficking network operating in Thailand, following a dramatic operation in Bangkok that authorities say uncovered links to a criminal organisation handling hundreds of millions of baht.
The suspect, identified as Ikenna Patrick Azubuike, 36, was arrested late on Tuesday night outside a condominium on Rama III Road in Bangkok’s Yannawa district. Investigators allege that he attempted to evade capture by forcing his vehicle through a police blockade, injuring officers before being taken into custody.
Patrick, who is commonly known by the nickname “Patrick“, has been charged with possession and distribution of cocaine, a Category 2 narcotic under Thai law, as well as resisting arrest. Authorities said additional money-laundering charges remain under consideration.
Police seized approximately 18 grammes of cocaine, cash, bank funds, a vehicle and other assets valued at more than 700,000 baht during the operation.
The arrest stemmed from a wider investigation launched on 22 May, when officers raided a condominium in Nonthaburi allegedly used as a base for a romance scam operation. Six foreign nationals were arrested during that operation. Investigators later uncovered suspected links between the scam network and a cocaine trafficking syndicate believed to have processed more than 300 million baht through its activities.
Authorities identified the organisation as “Dodorima“, describing it as a regional alliance of African criminal figures operating in Thailand and allegedly connected to a larger international network. Police claimed members attempted to conceal their activities through charitable donations and community programmes.
Investigators said Patrick had lived in Thailand for more than seven years and frequently travelled between Thailand and Africa. They believe he rose from street-level cocaine distribution in tourist areas to become the network’s leader in Thailand.
According to police, more than 380 million baht flowed through accounts linked to the group over the past year. Investigators also allege that large sums were transferred to Nigeria, where Patrick is believed to have invested in significant property assets.
During the arrest operation, officers attempted to block the suspect’s vehicle. Police allege he reversed into officers in an effort to escape, prompting authorities to disable the vehicle and force entry before arresting him.
Patrick reportedly admitted partial involvement in cocaine-related offences but denied any role in money laundering. He claimed the group’s funds originated from a fish-export business operating between Thailand and Nigeria.
Thai authorities have transferred the seized assets to the Office of the Narcotics Control Board for further investigation. Police said they are continuing to trace financial transactions and identify additional suspects, both in Thailand and overseas, who may be linked to the network.
Officials said international cooperation will continue as part of efforts to dismantle transnational criminal organisations involved in narcotics trafficking and related financial crimes.
