Two Maldivian nationals have been arrested in Bangkok after Thai police found 12 kilogrammes of drugs in parcels delivered to a cargo service.

Thai media reported that Bangkok Metropolitan Police Division 1 arrested 46-year-old Ali Rasheed and 36-year-old Mohamed Wisam.

The arrests followed a report that several parcels delivered to a cargo service in the Pathum Wan area may contain drugs. The parcels reportedly emitted a strong smell, prompting the cargo office to inspect them.

Police later searched the room where the two men were staying in the Sukhumvit area and found the parcels. A total of 2.37 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine was found concealed inside eight stainless-steel insulated tumblers, while 10 kilogrammes of cannabis was discovered among children's clothing and toys.

The two men have been charged with possession and distribution of Category 1 narcotics, with intent to sell. Both have denied the charges, reportedly telling police they were unaware that the parcels contained drugs and that they had been asked by an acquaintance to send them.

Thai police are investigating whether the two men are linked to a transnational drug trafficking network and are searching for other foreign nationals who may be connected to the case.