Nigerian arrested in Thailand after fleeing drug trial
A Thailand-based Nigerian, Ukoma Jefta Nuzbech, has been arrested after allegedly fleeing an ongoing drug-peddling trial. Authorities say Nuzbech was first arrested for selling cocaine to an undercover officer but later went into hiding instead of appearing in court. During his re-arrest, police reportedly found drugs, cash, and evidence linking him to further drug transactions. The case has drawn attention to the activities of foreign nationals involved in drug offences in Thailand.
What happened
- Ukoma Jefta Nuzbech was re-arrested on January 14 after a tip-off about his location.
- He was originally arrested in March 2025 for allegedly selling 25.71 grams of cocaine to an undercover police officer.
- After being released on bail, Nuzbech failed to appear in court and allegedly continued drug dealing between Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan.
- During the re-arrest, police recovered 1.18 grams of cocaine, 50,280 baht in cash, and a mobile phone with incriminating messages.
- The investigation is ongoing, with police seeking to identify possible accomplices and the full extent of the drug network.
