Thai and US narcotics suppression units have formed a joint network to hunt 11 major drug trafficking suspects believed to be in hiding in popular tourist provinces in Thailand.
A cash reward of US$2 million (60 million baht) has been offered for information leading to the arrest of the gang members.
David McConnell, group supervisor for the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) based in Bangkok, yesterday met with Phuket’s narcotics suppression officers and representatives from the 3rd Navy in the southern province to discuss their joint operation to track down the 11 suspects believed to be in hiding in tourist destinations such as Phuket, Chiang Mai and Pattaya.
Among the suspected traffickers are alleged drug baron Wei Hsueh-kang, alias Prasit Chivinnitipanya, and US fugitive James J. Bulger. Pictures of the suspects have been printed on beer glasses, T-shirts, caps and matchboxes which will be distributed among residents and tourists visiting Phuket.
Similar items were earlier given away to tourists and residents in Chiang Mai and Pattaya. Information related to some of the suspects was provided to local officials, a source said.
The items would be distributed in popular tourist spots in Phuket such as Soi Bang La and Patong beach.
Authorities plan to launch a public relations campaign on Dec 13 to seek the cooperation of local residents in providing clues about the whereabouts of the suspects, the source said.
WANTED
(Alias: Prasit Chivinnitipanya)
Date of Birth: 5/29/52
Place of Birth: China
Height: 5’6″ Weight: 125 lbs
Eyes: Brown Hair: Black
Race: Asian Nationality: Chinese
Wei Hsueh-Kang, the commander of the United WA State Army’s (UWSA or WA) Southern Military Command, is wanted on Federal drug violations in the Eastern District of New York. The WA is currently the dominant heroin trafficking group in Southeast Asia, and possibly worldwide. Wei Hsueh-Kang is believed to be in hiding in Burma.
The U.S. Department of State is offering a REWARD OF UP TO $2 MILLION for information leading to the arrest or conviction in the United States of Wei Hsueh-Kang.
If you have information, and you are outside the United States, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. In the United States, please contact the DEA, FBI, or ICE office in your city.
ALL IDENTITIES ARE KEPT STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL
