A suspected Jordanian drug kingpin was arrested in a major raid in Thailand.

The alleged crime boss, identified by police as Jihad, 42, was caught reportedly smuggling ketamine, cocaine, and ecstasy pills into the island of Phuket.

Police detained him at a security checkpoint for 'acting suspiciously'. They rifled through his shoulder bag and discovered the contraband stuffed inside.

Further investigation led to two residences on the island, where Jihad allegedly hid a cache of drugs and firearms.

Authorities said they seized 3.7 kilogrammes (8.2 pounds) of ketamine, 1.14 grammes (0.04 ounces) of cocaine, 28,217 ecstasy pills, four rifles, and more than 250 rounds of ammunition.

Police Lieutenant General Surapong Thanomchit, Commander of the Region 8 Provincial Police, said in an April 11 press conference: 'The suspect faces multiple charges including illegal entry into the Kingdom, possession of Category 1 (ecstasy) and Category 2 (ketamine, cocaine) narcotics with intent to sell without authorization, in a manner threatening national security and public safety, and illegal weapons possession.'

Under Thai law, using category 1 substances may be punished with up to three years in jail and a fine of up to 60,000 baht, while possession carries a fine of up to 200,000 baht and up to 10 years imprisonment.

Those convicted of dealing may face life imprisonment and a five million baht fine, depending on the amount involved.

Producers, importers, and exporters of Category 1 substances face the same charges and may face the death penalty if it is proven their intent was to sell or distribute on a large scale.

Importers, producers, and exporters of category 2 drugs face jail sentences depending on the amount, with the most severe being life behind bars.