Two women, one Thai and one Filipina, were apprehended at Phuket International Airport on July 9th, accused of attempting to smuggle a significant quantity of cannabis flower out of Thailand. The arrests, which occurred separately in the international departures terminal, highlight ongoing efforts by customs officials to combat the illicit export of cannabis.
Airport Interceptions Uncover Large Cannabis Shipments
The first interception occurred around 11 a.m. when customs officers flagged a black suitcase for inspection. Inside, they discovered 14 vacuum-sealed packages containing cannabis flower, with a total weight of 14.5 kilograms, including packaging. The owner of the suitcase, identified as 18-year-old Filipina national Levannah Chelsea Guzman, reportedly admitted that both the luggage and its contents were hers.
Following this discovery, officers proceeded to inspect a green suitcase around 1 p.m. This suitcase belonged to a Thai national, Penpitcha, who was allegedly found to be in possession of 16 vacuum-sealed packages of cannabis flower. The combined weight of this shipment was reported to be 17.6 kilograms. Penpitcha, like Guzman, reportedly confessed that the suitcase and its contents were hers.
Legal Ramifications and Charges
Both women now face serious legal repercussions. Levannah Chelsea Guzman has been charged with attempting to export goods that have not undergone the required customs procedures, a violation of the Customs Act B.E. 2560 (2017). Additionally, she faces charges under the Narcotics Code, the Protection and Promotion of Traditional Thai Medicine Wisdom Act B.E. 2542 (1999), and regulations concerning controlled herbs, specifically the Ministry of Public Health’s announcement on cannabis issued in 2025, along with other applicable laws.
Penpitcha faces the same alleged offenses and charges as Guzman. Following their arrests, both women and the seized cannabis were transferred to the Sakhu Police Station for further investigation and legal proceedings.
Heightened Security Measures at Phuket Airport
Officials stated that these arrests are part of a broader strategy to enhance security and prevent the smuggling of cannabis flower from Thailand via its airports. Passenger luggage inspections have been significantly intensified as part of a continuous effort to deter illegal exports and ensure compliance with national and international laws.
This incident follows closely on the heels of another significant seizure. Just one day prior to these arrests, customs officers at the same airport apprehended a Russian man. His luggage was found to contain over 17 kilograms
