Those arrested were identified as Apiwat “Sia Erk” Cha-aimnoi, 34, Banphot Srichan, 41, and Mana Buasuwan, 40.

Bureau Region 4 deputy commander Pol Col Wachara Thipmongkol said undercover officers Pol Senior Sergeant Major Sahat Kiangbangyang and Pol Corporals Natthawut Chanthawong and Nuwat Khienkola presented Apiwat with Bt3 million in cash as payment for 60,000 amphetamine pills at a gas station in Khao Yoy district. Banphot and Mana then allegedly led them to a roadside drug stash in Tha Yang. On confirming the nature of the pills, police moved to arrest the two, Wachara said, but they resisted and caused injury to the officers.

Wachara said Apiwat was arrested and claimed to be acting on behalf of a dealer identified only as Kitti, who was to pay him Bt70,000 for confirming the cash delivery.

Bureau Region 4 superintendent Pol Colonel Yutthana Preuksarungreung said more accomplices were being sought and efforts were underway to seize the gang’s assets. Police had already seized three fighting bulls at Apiwat’s farm, gold ornaments and Bt2 million found in bank accounts, he said.

The three men arrested on Wednesday face charges of possessing narcotics with intent to sell, while Banphot was also charged with carrying a gun and, along with Mana, resisting arrest.