PHUKET — Police and customs officers have arrested a South African woman at Phuket International Airport after allegedly discovering about 16 kilograms of heroin concealed inside pet food bags in her luggage.
Sakhu Police chief Pol. Col. Salan Santisasanakul reported the arrest to Phuket Provincial Police commander Pol. Maj. Gen. Sinlert Sukhum on the evening of 13 June 2026.
The suspect was identified as Jali, 32, a South African national. The arrest was carried out by investigators from Sakhu Police Station, Phuket Airport Customs officials and officers from the Narcotics Suppression Bureau.
Authorities seized seven packages of Category 1 narcotics (heroin) hidden inside dog and cat food bags packed in blue wheeled suitcases. The drugs were wrapped in clear plastic zip-lock bags and black tape, while some packages were additionally concealed in foil wrapping. The total weight, including packaging, was about 16 kilograms.
Officers also confiscated a used grey Samsung Galaxy A13 mobile phone as evidence.
The suspect was arrested at the oversized baggage drop-off area on the third floor of the International Passenger Terminal at Phuket International Airport in Mai Khao subdistrict, Thalang district, at 18:00 on 11 June 2026.
The investigation subsequently continued at the Phuket Airport Customs Office, Phuket Airport Cargo Building, Thalang Hospital and Sakhu Police Station.
Police said investigators are expanding the probe to identify the source of the narcotics and determine whether the suspect is linked to a wider international drug trafficking network.
The suspect remains in custody pending further legal proceedings.
