Illegal health products worth 220 million baht destroyed
Police have taken a significant step in the fight against illegal health products, destroying over 38,880 kilograms of unlicensed items worth more than 220 million baht (US$6.4 million). The operation, conducted at Bangpoo Industrial Estate, Samut Prakan, involved burning illicit drugs, food, cosmetics, and medical equipment.
At 10am yesterday, December 23, the collaborative effort was led by senior officials from the Consumer Protection Police Division and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This marked the 15th operation of its kind, targeting 219 cases linked to illegal health products. The total value of the destroyed goods underlined the scale of the issue, with the police determined to prevent these dangerous items from reaching consumers.
Lertchai Lertwut, a deputy secretary-general of the FDA, explained that the destruction was necessary as these items could not be repurposed safely. He stressed the importance of consumers purchasing only FDA-approved products, which should feature Thai labels and be free from misleading advertisements.
The FDA urged consumers to remain vigilant and report any illegal production, import, or sale of health products. Reports can be made via the FDA hotline 1556, email, Line, Facebook, or at health offices nationwide.
“There are no foods or cosmetics that can cure diseases. Consumers must be cautious and not believe false or exaggerated claims,” Lertchai stated, emphasising the need for scientific evidence to support product claims.
Vithaya Sriprasertphap, head of the Consumer Protection Police, highlighted the continuous efforts to inspect and regulate the production, importation, and distribution of illegal products. The destroyed items were confiscated from cases resolved between 2020 and 2024.
He warned suppliers against distributing illegal or substandard products, asserting that those caught violating the law would face severe action from the police, reported KhaoSod.
“We will act decisively to remove illegal health products from Thai society. Our aim is to ensure consumers have confidence in the government’s commitment to protect them,” Vithaya stated, urging people to report any suspicious activities to the police hotline 1135 or the Consumer Protection Police’s Facebook page.
