Phuket gov warns businesses over trading in stolen goods

PHUKET: Governor Wichai Phraisa-ngop on Wednesday took time out from his regular schedule to focus his attention on stolen goods being traded in Phuket.

Addressing about 300 business operators at a special seminar held to brief shop owners on their legal obligations under the Auction Sale and Antique Sale Control Act BE 2474, Governor Wichai said, “If the [business] operators did not buy stolen goods, there would be no more stealing.”

Among those in attendance at the seminar at the Katina Hotel in Phuket Town were antique dealers, gold traders, secondhand car dealers and mobile phone shop owners.

Gov Wichai told the audience, “If sellers are sure the goods they are selling are legal, they would follow the rules, and shops must obey the law, too.

“Businesses are asked to check the ID cards of people they buy goods from, especially when buying gold, copper wire and mobile phones. This helps the government in its fight against theft and the purchase of stolen goods,” he added.

Gov Wichai said that any shops found trading in stolen goods would face strict punishment and have their business licenses revoked.

The seminar also saw briefings by officers from the Ministry of Interior’s Department of Local Administration.

— Sitthipong Nongkaew