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Russian tourist arrested in Phuket: drug advertising with QR codes!
Russian man arrested in Phuket for drug advertising using QR codes. Authorities are increasing controls on tourism.
Russian tourist arrested in Phuket: drug advertising with QR codes!
An incident in Phuket is causing a stir that is drawing attention to the current drug problems in Thailand. A 27-year-old Russian citizen, Semen Kasparian, was arrested due to his methodical promotion of drug sales. He left QR code stickers leading to drug-selling websites on utility poles and tourist attractions. This was made public on the Facebook page "เฉลิมพงศ์ แสงดี - Chalermpong Saengdee" and by the Tourism Commission, as reported by today.line.me.
The Thai National Police, led by Maj. Gen. Phanumart Boonyalakham and Maj. Gen. Chutharet Yingyongdamrongsakul, quickly intervened and tasked the Surat Thani Immigration Department, Provincial Police and Drug Enforcement Bureau with tracking down the suspect. Kasparian had previously been in hiding on Koh Samui, where he was arrested in a hotel on November 6, 2025 while trying to escape.
Uncovering an international drug trade
When his room was searched, numerous of the stickers in question were found, as well as photos documenting him applying the stickers. According to thethaiger.com, Kasparian confessed that he was hired by an anonymous contact via the app Telegram to place these manipulated advertisements and was paid $1 per sticker in cryptocurrency. In the three days this “promotion” ran, he had already earned about $300.
However, the police do not fully believe his statements and are investigating possible accomplices and a potential international drug trafficking network. However, it is important that authorities in tourist areas tighten controls to keep an eye on the behavior of foreigners who may be violating Thai laws.
Drug Law in Thailand: A Sharp Sword
The use and possession of drugs are strictly prohibited in Thailand. Penalties range from fines to life imprisonment, with drug trafficking even punishable by the death penalty. According to thaizeit.de, the possession or use of harder drugs such as cocaine and heroin is punished particularly harshly, while the use of marijuana or hashish can result in fines and a lifelong holiday ban.
The Kasparian case not only exemplifies the problem of drug advertising, but also sheds light on the challenges Thailand faces in dealing with drug-related crime. Authorities must remain vigilant to prevent such practices and ensure the safety of tourists and the integrity of the country.