French Interpol Red Notice suspect detained in Phuket

*A French national was detained in Phuket yesterday, March 12, as immigration police acted on a French Embassy request involving a suspect wanted in France and subject to an Interpol Red Notice. The request was sent through the Royal Thai Police Foreign Affairs Division and sought cooperation to arre*

Published: 2026-03-13 20:26 UTC Event date: 2026-03-12

A French national wanted on an Interpol Red Notice was detained by Phuket immigration police on March 12, following a request from the French Embassy to apprehend and deport the suspect back to France. The arrest took place in Rawai, Mueang district, after investigators traced the man’s location through coordinated efforts with the Royal Thai Police Foreign Affairs Division.

The suspect, identified as 46-year-old Faisal, was found living in a house in the Rawai area. Officers confirmed his identity and established that he was the subject of an arrest warrant in France related to an attempted murder case. According to police, the French warrant stems from a violent dispute in France during which a firearm was discharged and another individual was injured. Faisal is believed to have fled France and entered Thailand to evade prosecution.

Upon locating Faisal, immigration police questioned him and he admitted to being the individual named in the French warrant and the Interpol Red Notice. Authorities then moved to revoke his permission to stay in Thailand under provisions of the Immigration Act, which allows for the removal of foreign nationals wanted by foreign governments. Records show that Faisal last entered Thailand on January 23, 2026, under visa exemption, with his stay originally set to expire on March 23, 2026.

Faisal was transported to Phuket Immigration, where he was officially informed of the revocation of his stay. He is now being held pending further legal proceedings, including arrangements for his deportation to France.

This incident highlights the ongoing cooperation between Thai authorities and international law enforcement agencies in tracking down fugitives who may attempt to use Phuket as a refuge. The presence of such individuals in Phuket raises concerns for both residents and tourists, particularly in popular residential and tourist areas like Rawai, where the suspect was found. Local officials have reiterated their commitment to maintaining safety and upholding the law to protect the community and visitors.

In a similar case, Phuket police recently arrested a Kazakh national wanted for fraud in his home country, also acting on an Interpol Red Notice. That suspect was likewise held and prepared for deportation following coordination with the Kazakhstani Embassy.

Authorities in Phuket continue to urge landlords, residents, and business owners to report any suspicious activity involving foreign tenants or visitors. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and effective law enforcement collaboration. Faisal remains in custody as preparations for his return to France proceed, with updates expected as the extradition process moves forward.

Source: https://thethaiger.com/news/phuket/french-interpol-red-notice-suspect-detained-in-phuket