“Operation Dawn” involved more than 400 soldiers, police commandoes and ONCB officers under the direction of Pol Col Torsak Sukwimol, commander of the CSD’s Special Operations Subdivision.

The methamphetamine pills were found hidden inside a flashlight at the house of Suriya Samthamai in Koh Khaek in Prawet district’s Nong Bon sub-district. Also seized were a BB gun, a handmade gun, a samurai-style sword, three knives and a pair of walkie-talkies.

Suriya was not home. His niece was taken into custody for questioning.

Banthit Leelapata of the ONCB’s law enforcement division said the agency had received tips about drugs being sold in the 13 locations searched. He described the 20 meth pills discovered as a remnant of the drugs being trafficked in the Prawet area.

Banthit said two drug users had also been arrested at another house in the Koh Khaek community and “admitted” they sold drugs to earn money to support their own habit. The suspects were identified as Adisak Khanuengchob and Natthapong Khanuengchob, allegedly prosecuted two years ago for drug abuse by Prawet police.