Chinese National Arrested in Bangkok with Gun, Meth After 586-Day Overstay

BANGKOK — A 50-year-old Chinese man was arrested in Bangkok on September 23 after being found in possession of a revolver and 4.8 grams of crystal methamphetamine. Immigration records indicate he had overstayed his permitted stay in Thailand by 586 days. Police from Wang Thonglang Police Station apprehended the man around 4:00 PM following a tip from a member of the public who reported a suspicious individual sitting outside a hotel in Soi Lat Phrao 122. The caller noted the man appeared to be Chinese and potentially armed. Upon arrival, officers found the man unable to produce a passport. A subsequent search of his belongings uncovered a revolver concealed in a black bag and a package of crystal methamphetamine, weighing approximately 4.8 grams including packaging, along with drug paraphernalia, stored in a metal box. Preliminary urine tests and hospital confirmation revealed the presence of drugs in his system. During questioning with the assistance of an interpreter, the man reportedly stated he purchased the methamphetamine from a Chinese acquaintance for 5,000 baht and that the firearm was given to him by another Chinese acquaintance before he was to return to his home country. Police are currently investigating the individuals allegedly involved in supplying the drugs and the firearm. The immigration check confirmed the man's overstay of 586 days. He faces charges including illegal possession of a firearm, carrying a firearm in a public place without reasonable cause, illegal possession of a Category 1 narcotic, drug use, and remaining in Thailand after his visa expired. The suspect and seized items have been transferred to Wang Thonglang police for further legal proceedings and investigation.