An armed Russian tourist was arrested for allegedly using cocaine and extorting tourists in Thailand.

Vladislav Klenov, 27, was said to have threatened fellow Russians into paying 'protection money' by posing as a Russian mafia member with connections to Thai authorities on the Full Moon Party island of Koh Phangan.

Police converged on his cannabis shop after he was reported flaunting firearms and a fake police vest to intimidate tourists.

Footage shows officers raiding the marijuana dispensary, where Vladislav was found lounging on a sofa.

The Russian could only watch as the cops combed through the premises for evidence before cuffing him.

Authorities seized from him several Thai banknotes, a cannabis sales record, fake police gear, an air rifle, and a urine drug test report from Koh Phangan Hospital.

Police Colonel Apichat Jansamret, superintendent of Koh Phangan Police Station, said: ‘The suspect was arrested and taken to the Koh Phangan Police Station for legal proceedings.

‘We have instructed investigators to coordinate with immigration and tourist police to investigate and take strict action against foreigners displaying similar behaviour.

‘Koh Phangan Police will also apply for the revocation of the suspect's visa.'

During questioning, the embarrassed Russian - seen in police photos trying to hide his face - allegedly admitted to using cocaine and touting the air rifle. He also confessed to lying about his connections with Thai authorities, but denied extorting money from anyone.

The suspect was charged with working in Thailand without a permit, and using a Category 2 drug.

Cocaine is classified as a 'category 2' narcotic under Thai law. Importers, producers, and exporters face jail sentences depending on the amount, with the most severe being life behind bars.

Despite the severe penalties in law, many tourists are able to 'negotiate' with Thai authorities who are not keen on footing the bill for their prison stays.

The Thai Full Moon Party is an all-night beach party on the island of Koh Phangan. The party takes place on the night of every full moon and is usually attended by thousands of backpackers.

However, the event has become a notorious celebration filled with cheap drink and drugs. With cannabis now legal on the island, magic mushrooms, kratom, methamphetamine and LSD are also widely available.