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Thai Police in United Shirts Pose With Detained City Fan in Viral Arrest Photo

The viral image highlights police leaning on football rivalry to showcase an alleged meth possession case under Thailand’s tough drug laws.

Overview

  • The arrest took place in Dech Udom in northeast Thailand hours after Manchester United beat Manchester City 2-0 at Old Trafford.
  • Officers posted a photo of the detainee in a City shirt with the caption "Manchester is RED" as they stood behind him wearing United jerseys.
  • Local reports say the 43-year-old was allegedly found with three methamphetamine tablets; Thailand allows up to a year in jail for personal possession.
  • No charges or disciplinary action over the photo had been reported as the post drew wide online attention and mixed reactions about police conduct.
  • A similar tactic was reported last March when Thai officers wore Liverpool shirts in a drug bust involving a suspect in a Newcastle top, with a district chief noting many colleagues support Liverpool.