BANGKOK, Thailand – Thai authorities have intensified their crackdown on illegal e-cigarette sales, conducting major operations in Khon Kaen and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has tasked Prime Minister’s Office Minister Jiraporn Sindhuprai with overseeing enforcement, instructing officials to take decisive action within 30 days, particularly in areas near schools and locations frequented by young people.
In Khon Kaen, police raided an online distribution network selling e-cigarettes via the LINE application, seizing over 1,200 vaping products. A sting operation on February 26 led officers to a store in the capital district, where they confiscated vape pods, disposable e-cigarettes, and e-liquid. The store owner, a 29-year-old woman, was charged under the Customs Act for possession and distribution of contraband goods. The case has been handed over to investigators for further legal action.
A more extensive operation in Nakhon Si Thammarat resulted in the seizure of nearly 50,000 e-cigarettes hidden inside a truck traveling from Hat Yai to Bangkok. Authorities intercepted the vehicle on February 25 in Chulabhorn district, uncovering a shipment worth approximately 11.96 million baht. The driver was arrested and charged under the Customs Act for illegally transporting goods without customs clearance. Investigators are working to identify those responsible for the smuggling operation.
Police have warned that possession and distribution of illegal e-cigarettes violate Thai customs laws, carrying penalties of up to five years in prison and fines of up to four times the item’s value. Smoking e-cigarettes in restricted areas is also punishable under the Tobacco Products Control Act.
On February 28, Minister Jiraporn held a press conference at the X-ray Inspection Center of Bangkok Port Customs to announce the latest crackdown on illegally imported e-cigarettes. This operation is part of the government’s strict measures to combat illicit goods and protect public health. (NNT)
