Vape and escape: Pattaya police snuff out illicit puff trade
In a bold move to clamp down on the illegal vape trade, Pattaya City Police arrested three in a late-night sting operation.
The raid resulted in the confiscation of seven fruit-flavoured vapes and the arrest of the suspects for illegally selling electronic cigarettes.
At around 11.36pm, yesterday, March 17, the police launched the operation after gathering intelligence about a group involved in the illegal sale of vapes.
Officers deployed an undercover agent, who contacted the dealers through Facebook and arranged a purchase of disposable vapes.
The operation targeted three people: 31 year old Jakarin, who sold three vapes; 41 year old Teerapat who sold two; and 23 year old Natsuda, who also sold two. Each vape was priced at 350 baht, making the transaction seem like a routine deal.
The suspects arranged to meet at Pattaya Beach, just steps away from the Pattaya City Police Station—showing a blatant disregard for the law.
As soon as the undercover agent completed the exchange and handed over the cash, police moved in swiftly, arresting the trio and seizing the illicit vapes.
During questioning, the suspects confessed to their involvement, admitting they sourced the vapes and resold them, pocketing a profit of 100 baht per unit.
With the items now confiscated, the suspects were taken into custody and are facing charges for the illegal sale of electronic cigarettes, reported The Pattaya News.
Police vowed to expand the investigation, aiming to track down larger suppliers in the booming illicit vape trade. This operation is part of an ongoing government crackdown to eradicate the illegal sale of vapes across the country.
In similar news, a young Thai student’s education has been uprooted after a series of shocking assaults by a fellow teenager over a damaged vaping device.
A 13 year old student from Khon Kaen was attacked by a 16 year old, a known gang member, prompting the younger boy’s transfer to a boarding school for his safety.
Following disturbing videos of the attacks circulating, a high-stakes meeting at Watjunprasit School in Ban Phai district, involving school officials and psychologists, led to the decision, backed by the victim’s worried mother.
Despite bruises, the younger boy avoided serious harm. The new school promises a secure environment, ensuring no outsider entry.
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