Thai police bust major illegal alcohol and cigarette ring in Hat Yai

Police in Songkhla have successfully dismantled a major illegal alcohol and cigarette operation in Hat Yai, following complaints from local businesses about unfair competition. Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed the operation’s success, which took place yesterday at 2pm.

The crackdown came after legal businesses reported significant losses due to vendors selling illicit products at lower prices, leading to billions in lost tax revenue annually. The special operations team discovered that smugglers had been using modified cars as mobile warehouses and distributing the contraband under the cover of night. Additionally, private courier services were exploited to facilitate the nationwide distribution of these illegal goods.

The raid led to the arrest of five suspects, whose identities have not been disclosed by the police. The police seized substantial quantities of contraband, including 15 vehicles, over 120 bottles of illegal alcohol, more than 4.6 million illegal cigarettes (approximately 232,300 packs), and over 19,000 e-cigarettes.

The total value of the seized items was estimated at 32,910,000 baht (US$ 910,000). The associated tax loss was calculated at 219,638,100 baht (US$ 6 million), bringing the total financial impact to 313,278,100 baht (US$ 8.7 million), reported The Pattaya News.

“The public is urged to avoid illegal alcohol and cigarettes due to the health risks associated with counterfeit products,” Anutin stated. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating illegal activities and maintaining order in Thai society, emphasising the importance of protecting the health and economic well-being of the nation.

In related news, police seized 66,000 smuggled e-cigarettes valued at over 15 million baht from a warehouse in Mueang, Uttaradit, northern Thailand.

The Thai Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) and other relevant agencies announced the successful operation during a press conference on July 12.

CPPD officers had been investigating illegal online e-cigarette sellers who targeted juveniles by disguising the products as cartoon characters. These toy-like e-cigarettes were designed to deceive guardians and appeal to young buyers.