British man arrested in Pattaya over Phuket cartel-linked killing

Thai police arrested a 33-year-old British man in Pattaya on May 15 over his alleged role in a cartel-linked killing in Phuket. Investigators identified the suspect only as Mr. Amir and said he supplied weapons used in the February 7, 2026, fatal shooting of a 24-year-old Iraqi man on Siriraj Road in Patong, Kathu district.

Police said the case is tied to a broader transnational drug cartel dispute rather than a random confrontation. Amir denied the allegations during preliminary questioning.

Condo raid and charges filed under Phuket court warrant

The Central Investigation Bureau said officers from the Crime Suppression Division raided a luxury condominium in Nong Prue after obtaining a warrant from Phuket Provincial Court.

Authorities charged Amir with supporting premeditated murder, illegal possession and carrying of firearms, and facilitating gunfire in a public area.

Police also seized several items they believe are linked to the case. He was later transferred to Patong Police Station for prosecution.

Earlier arrest of suspected shooter shaped the investigation

The killing happened in broad daylight and sent bystanders running from the area, police said. Investigators later arrested the suspected gunman, a Colombian national, at a hideout near Phuket Airport.

During that arrest, officers seized two firearms, ammunition and a motorcycle they said was used in the attack.

Police said evidence gathered after the shooting led them to conclude the operation had been planned in advance as a contract killing. Investigators allege Amir acted as a coordinator by procuring weapons for the Colombian suspect and helping facilitate the operation, while the inquiry continues into the cartel’s network and activities in Thailand.

Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/05/15/british-suspect-arrested-in-pattaya-for-alleged-role-in-columbian-cartel-related-killing-of-iraqi-man-in-phuket/