At least 56 Malaysians jailed in southern Thailand, 44 for drug offences, says consul-general

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 7 — At least 56 Malaysians are currently incarcerated in southern Thailand, with the majority serving time for drug-related crimes, according to Malaysian Consul-General in Songkhla Ahmad Fahmi Ahmad Sarkawi. Of the 56 prisoners, 44 were convicted for drug offences, primarily involving smuggling, while four were jailed for their roles as mule account holders in online scams.

The remaining two Malaysian inmates are serving sentences for immigration violations, theft, firearms offences, and other crimes. One inmate is currently serving a life sentence, while another faces the death penalty for a murder case. The prisoners are held in six facilities across 15 southern Thai provinces, with the majority — 30 inmates — residing at Narathiwat Provincial Central Prison.

Additional inmates are detained at Na Thawi Prison in Songkhla, Songkhla Central Prison, Surat Thani Provincial Central Prison, Yala Provincial Central Prison, and Satun Provincial Central Prison. The sentences range from one to 37 years, with the life sentence and potential death penalty cases mentioned. The Malaysian consulate is actively maintaining contact with the inmates, conducting regular prison visits, and assisting them in reconnecting with their relatives.

Consular officials have also held meetings at Narathiwat and Songkhla Central Prisons to provide legal and immigration guidance to those nearing the end of their sentences.