Thai authorities have arrested a Nigerian national, Nwaiwu Ifeanyi, after uncovering over N67m concealed in the ceiling of his bathroom during a late-night raid, in what officials described as a major crackdown on a suspected drug network.
The operation also led to the arrest of three other suspects and the seizure of cocaine, cash, and valuables linked to the alleged trafficking ring.
According to a report by Bangkok-based outlet Khaosod English, the 46-year-old suspect was apprehended near Silom Soi 1 after police tracked his movements.
About 27 grammes of cocaine were reportedly recovered from him at the point of arrest.
Authorities said a subsequent search of his residence exposed 1.5 million baht, stashed in the bathroom ceiling, alongside foreign currency and jewellery.
Three other suspects — Swiss national, Thomas Giubibini, and two Thai nationals, Thanayot Asawamethi and Nattawat Wangkitjinda — were also arrested in connection with the case.
In total, investigators said they recovered about 30 grammes of cocaine, a vehicle, cash in local and foreign currencies, and jewellery valued at hundreds of thousands of baht.
The suspect is believed to have lived in Thailand for over 17 years on a family visa obtained through marriage to a Thai national.
However, police suspect the union may have been arranged to legitimise his stay.
Investigators further alleged that the suspect coordinated illicit transactions through encrypted messaging platforms, which were infiltrated by operatives before the raid was executed.
Police said the suspect resisted arrest and had to be subdued before he later made statements implicating himself in the operation.
The latest arrest comes amid intensified scrutiny of foreign-linked drug networks in Thailand, following a similar case earlier this year involving another Nigerian, Ukoma Nuzbech, who was declared wanted after allegedly absconding while on bail in an ongoing drug trial.