Nigerian 'pastor' busted as alleged cocaine network boss

Police apprehended a 47-year-old Nigerian last night, who claims to be a pastor who has lived in Thailand for nearly two decades, on suspicion of being a cocaine smuggling kingpin in Bangkok’s Bang Rak district.

An extensive search of his room led to the seizure of cocaine and about 2.4 million baht in cash hidden in the bathroom ceiling.

Video footage, later released by police, shows officers rushing towards the suspect, identified only as Patrick, as he attempted to get into a black minivan before being detained.

The Nigerian faces multiple charges, including possession of cocaine with intent to sell.

Police said that the suspect has lived in Thailand for more than 17 years and has a Thai wife in what authorities described as a sham marriage.

Police reported that the man broke down in tears after his arrest, pleading to return home and expressing his fear of dying in a Thai prison.

In his initial statement, the suspect confessed to the charges, saying he was shocked to be caught after operating for such a long time.

He also claimed he did not expect police to find the money hidden in the ceiling, adding that the cash originated from Nigeria and was kept there for safekeeping rather than concealment.

Police said that, in separate raids, they arrested three more suspects in connection with the Nigerian’s network, including a 60-year-old Swiss man, Thomas, in Nonthaburi province.

Officers seized 0.87 grams of cocaine from Thomas.

Two Thai nationals, ‘Yot’, 35, and ‘Nat’, 34, were detained in the Rama III area of Bangkok.

In total, authorities seized approximately 30 grams of cocaine, one vehicle and millions of baht in cash in various currencies.

On the night of April 19, officers had monitored the suspect’s movements and observed a drug handoff before moving in to make the arrest at around 11pm.