Thai authorities have apprehended a Nigerian national, Nwaiwu Ifeanyi, over alleged involvement in drug trafficking, following the discovery of a large sum of cash concealed in the ceiling of his bathroom.
According to a report by Bangkok-based news platform Khaosod English, the arrest was carried out during a late-night operation on Saturday, during which officers uncovered about 1.5 million baht, estimated at over N67m.
The 46-year-old suspect was reportedly picked up near Silom Soi 1 after law enforcement operatives tracked his movements. During the arrest, officials recovered approximately 27 grammes of cocaine from him.
The operation also led to the arrest of three other individuals believed to be connected to the same drug network. They include a Swiss national, Thomas Giubibini, alongside two Thai nationals identified as Thanayot Asawamethi, 35, and Nattawat Wangkitjinda, 34, who were taken into custody over alleged possession of illicit substances.
In total, security operatives seized about 30 grammes of cocaine, a vehicle, 1.5 million baht in cash, additional foreign currency valued at 15,000 baht, and jewellery estimated at 400,000 baht.
Investigators alleged that Ifeanyi had been supplying cocaine within the Thai capital and coordinating transactions through encrypted messaging platforms, which security agents reportedly infiltrated prior to his arrest.
Authorities further disclosed that the suspect had resided in Thailand for over 17 years under a family visa obtained through a Thai spouse, though they suspect the marriage may have been arranged to facilitate his continued stay.
Police sources added that the suspect initially resisted arrest and was subdued before allegedly admitting to the offences.
The development comes barely three months after another Nigerian resident in Thailand, Ukoma Nuzbech, was arrested for allegedly absconding while on bail in connection with a separate drug trafficking case in the Koh Pha Ngan area.
Nuzbech had earlier been apprehended in March 2025 after allegedly selling 25.71 grammes of cocaine to an undercover officer. He was subsequently granted bail pending trial but reportedly failed to appear in court and was said to have continued engaging in illicit drug activities.
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