A group of French nationals are reportedly facing legal repercussions in Thailand, accused of attempting to smuggle cannabis out of the country. The individuals are believed to have been ensnared by a social media scheme dubbed the “Thailand plan,” which promised free trips to Thailand, including flights, accommodation, and expenses, in exchange for transporting luggage back to Europe.
Those who accepted the offer were allegedly told the luggage contained only mobile phones. However, several suspects maintain they were unaware of the cannabis. One case details a 20-year-old French man who traveled to Thailand in mid-June and was apprehended as he prepared to leave. Authorities discovered 16.8 kilograms of cannabis in his locked suitcase, which he was unable to open. His family informed AFP that he was approached on Snapchat with the “Thailand plan” offer, which stated it was legal to transport mobile phones and promised travel and compensation. It is not yet confirmed if all 11 apprehended French nationals were indeed unaware of the illegal contents.
Further complicating the situation, two French tourists were detained in Hong Kong while carrying luggage containing cannabis. These individuals had traveled from Thailand and were arrested during a stopover, according to a police source speaking to franceinfo.
The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, France Diplomatie, has issued a stern advisory for travelers heading to Thailand, unequivocally stating that exporting cannabis from the country is strictly forbidden. The ministry pointed out that as of June 18, 2023, Thailand has implemented a customs fine of 30,000 baht per kilogram of seized cannabis. Non-payment of this fine can result in detention and imprisonment for periods ranging from 2 to 10 years. The ministry emphasized that Thailand’s cannabis regulations have undergone substantial changes and urged travelers to stay informed about the most current rules.
French diplomatic sources have indicated that authorities in Paris are closely monitoring the circumstances of the detained French citizens. The French consulate in Thailand is actively cooperating with local authorities to provide consular assistance. Concurrently, investigations are ongoing to unravel the “Thailand plan” phenomenon, identify its organizers and any associated networks, and determine the methods used to recruit individuals for drug transportation to Europe.