Chiang Rai - A drug courier was killed and 50,000 methamphetamine pills seized in a clash between Pha Muang Force rangers and a group of drug couriers near the border with Myanmar in Mae Fa Luang district.
The clash occurred at 4.30am when the patrol, led by Maj Sumit Saenduangdee, commander of Ranger Company 3109, spotted a group of eight to 10 men, each carrying a weapon and a backpack, walking near Ban Mae Chan Luang in tambon Mae Salong.
When the rangers told them to stop for a search, the men opened fire and threw a hand grenade at them.
The rangers and the couriers exchanged gunfire for about 20 minutes, as the couriers retreated into the forest.
The rangers waited until dawn before clearing the area.
They found the body of one drug courier.
An AK47 rifle with 25 rounds of ammunition and a backpack containing 50,000 methamphetamine pills were found nearby.
A grenade was also found at the scene of the gun battle.
Authorities believe the drug couriers belong to a Wa ethnic group in Myanmar led by Col Ja Lor Bor.
Col Kasidit Lakkrod, deputy commander of Pha Muang Force, said the operation followed a tip-off.