An Indonesian national suspected of trafficking narcotics from Laos was detained at Trapaing Kriel International Border Checkpoint on Sunday in Stung Treng province, the National Police and General Department of Immigration said a day later.

The bust occurred as a result of collaborative efforts by the anti-drug authorities from the Ministry of Interior and the provincial level.

The 43-year-old man was arrested at 12:50pm on Sunday after joint forces found, in his possession, a total of 44 packets containing white powder alleged to be methamphetamine, and stuffed into packages of food, coffee and toys.

“After further inspection, the Trapaing Kriel International Border Checkpoint authorities ascertained that the packets contained illicit drugs,” he said, adding that the suspect was held before reaching the arrival stamping counter.

Speaking to The Post on Monday, provincial anti-drug office chief Chem Phanith said the suspect was sent for further investigation at the Interior Ministry’s Anti-Drug Department after being remanded in the custody of Stung Treng police for one night.

In Song, administration bureau chief at the ministry’s anti-drug department, said the suspect’s interrogation is still ongoing to seek more information “which might lead to the arrest of other suspects”.