Federal High Court Convicts 10 Thai Nationals for Cocaine Trafficking via Vessel MV Chayanee Naree
Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court in Lagos on Thursday convicted ten Thai nationals, all crew members of the vessel MV Chayanee Naree, for trafficking 32.9 kilograms of cocaine into Nigeria.
The judgment follows their arrest on October 13, 2021, by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at Apapa Port, Lagos, upon arrival from Brazil. The vessel and crew were charged with conspiracy, unlawful transportation, and importation of illicit drugs — offences which violate sections 11 (a), 11 (b), and 14 (b) of the NDLEA Act, Cap N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.
Convicted Sailors:
- Krilerk Tanakhan
- Boonlert Hansoongnern
- Jakkarin Booncharoen
- Thammarong Put-tlek
- Worrapat Paopinta
- Marut Kantaprom
- Werapat Somboonying
- Urkit Amsri
- Panudet Jaisuk
- Amrat Thawom
They were initially arraigned in February 2022, alongside nine Nigerians: Samuel Messiah, Ishaya Maisamari, Ilesanmi Ayo Abbey, Osabeye Stephen, Gbenga Ogunfadeke, Kayode Buletiri, Rilwan Omotosho Liasu, Saidi Sule Alani, and Jamiu Adewale Yusuf. Three others, Kehinde Enoch, Ayo Joseph, and Tunde, are still at large.
Legal Process:
The Thai nationals, represented by a team of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) including Babajide Koku, Femi Atoyebi, and Tunde Adejuyigbe, entered a No-Case Submission which was overruled by the court. Subsequently, they entered into a plea bargain agreement with the NDLEA.
Prosecution Team: Mrs. Theresa Asuquo, Mr. A. Adebayo, and Paul Awogbuyi.
Court Ruling:
- The vessel MV Chayanee Naree was fined $4 million USD (or Naira equivalent).
- The three Captains (Tanakhan, Hansoongnern, and Booncharoen) were each fined $50,000 USD.
- The other seven crew members were each fined $30,000 USD.
- An additional option fine of ₦100,000 was imposed on the remaining convicted sailors.
Nigerians’ Trial:
The trial of the nine Nigerian co-defendants has been adjourned to June 25, 2025.
The conviction marks a significant step in Nigeria’s continuing battle against international drug trafficking and reinforces the NDLEA’s stance on accountability for both foreign and local actors in drug-related crimes.
