National —
At 10:30 AM on June 20th, 2024, Thai Cyber Crime Investigative police, alongside relevant agencies, conducted a press conference to announce the successful raid operations called “Smokeless” at warehouses in Nakhon Pathom and Bangkok, resulting in the seizure of 80,000 units of illegal e-cigarettes valued at 17 million baht.
The raid operations dismantled an extensive e-cigarette network uncovered after investigations traced illegal online sales originating in Songkhla on April 23rd. Subsequent probes revealed two warehouses in Nakhon Pathom and Bangkok storing various e-cigarette brands and associated equipment.
Following the operation, Thai authorities apprehended two suspects publicly identified only as Mr. Thanachot, 44, in Sam Phran, Nakhon Pathom, and Ms. Nathaporn, 30, in Prawet, Bangkok, both of whom claimed to be only warehouse house keepers.
As a result, Thai authorities seized disputed properties, including over 80,000 units of e-cigarettes and related equipment valued at more than 17 million baht from the two locations.
Initially, charges were filed against the suspects for selling prohibited products under the Consumer Protection Board’s regulations, including e-cigarettes and associated liquids.
Thai Officials emphasized that e-cigarettes pose a significant societal concern in Thailand, particularly among minors and students who are increasingly drawn to the products’ evolving features and designs, leading to addiction. They urged parents and guardians to closely monitor and educate young individuals about the hazards associated with e-cigarette use.
Thailand has some of the strictest anti-vaping laws in the world.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
