Nigerian Fleeing Drug Trial Arrested in Thailand

A Nigerian national residing in Thailand has been apprehended after reportedly evading court proceedings related to a drug trafficking case on the island of Koh Pha Ngan.

According to a report from Thai authorities, Ukoma Jefta Nuzbech was taken back into custody on January 14th following information received about his location. His initial arrest occurred in March 2025 for allegedly selling approximately 25.71 grams of cocaine to an undercover police officer.

While released on bail pending trial, Nuzbech failed to appear in court and allegedly went into hiding. Authorities state he continued to engage in drug sales between the islands of Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan.

Upon his re-arrest, police reportedly recovered 1.18 grams of suspected cocaine, over 50,000 Thai baht in cash, and a mobile phone. Investigators indicate the phone contained messages linked to drug transactions, which also suggested a connection to a Thai woman whose bank account may have been used for payments.

Nuzbech now faces a charge of possession with intent to sell, which carries a potential penalty of up to 10 years imprisonment and a substantial fine if convicted. Police have indicated the investigation is ongoing to identify any possible accomplices and determine the extent of the involved drug network.

This incident follows other recent arrests in Thailand involving Nigerian nationals accused of similar drug-related offences, highlighting ongoing law enforcement efforts against narcotics trafficking in the country.