Over 10,000 bottles of cough syrup seized in Phuket drug raid

Police made a shocking discovery in Kathu, Phuket, as a recent investigation into an illegal e-cigarette distribution network has uncovered more than 10,000 bottles of cough syrup, allegedly part of a wider smuggling operation. The raid, which has left many stunned, highlights the alarming rise of unregulated drug trafficking in the region.

An ongoing investigation into a local e-cigarette ring led officers to a parcel delivery shop in Kathu. The investigation revealed that both e-cigarettes and large quantities of cough syrup were being shipped from an online store.

Region 8 Police confirmed the seizure, with officers uncovering more than 10,000 bottles of cough syrup in over 400 parcels set to be distributed across the country.

“These products were improperly labelled and being marketed without the necessary approvals,” said Police Major Gen Ponchai Khacharaklin, Deputy Commander of Region 8 Police.

The discovery comes as part of a broader crackdown on the illegal sale of controlled substances, spearheaded by the Phuket Provincial Health authorities and postal services.

Over 10,000 bottles of cough syrup seized in Phuket drug raid | News by Thaiger

The investigation has revealed disturbing links between the distribution of unlicensed drugs and other illicit activities, particularly in online marketplaces.

Police are now focusing on curbing the sale of prescription drugs without proper authorisation, as well as targeting those responsible for misleading advertising and mislabelled food products.

Over 10,000 bottles of cough syrup seized in Phuket drug raid | News by Thaiger

Over 10,000 bottles of cough syrup seized in Phuket drug raid | News by Thaiger

“Those involved face severe legal consequences, including imprisonment and hefty fines, as part of our commitment to combatting drug-related crimes,” added Ponchai.

He further emphasised the operation’s role in maintaining public safety and ensuring that such dangerous substances are kept off the streets, reported The Phuket News.

Over 10,000 bottles of cough syrup seized in Phuket drug raid | News by Thaiger

The raid has brought to light the increasing issue of unregulated drugs being smuggled into Thailand through various channels, including postal services and online platforms.

Police are now working to dismantle this network and prevent future occurrences. The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests are expected in the coming weeks as police intensify their efforts.

Crime NewsPhuket NewsThailand News

Puntid Tantivangphaisal

Originally from Hong Kong, Puntid moved to Bangkok in 2020 to pursue further studies in translation. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Hong Kong. Puntid spent 8 years living in Manchester, UK. Before joining The Thaiger, Puntid has been a freelance translator for 2 years. In her free time, she enjoys swimming and listening to music, as well as writing short fiction and poetry.

Related Articles