Defence Officials Raid Shop for Illegal E-Cigarette and Baraku Sales in Phuket

In response to a complaint lodged through the Phuket Provincial Damrongdhama Center (Provincial Ombudsman’s Office), a special administrative task force recently conducted a raid on a shop in Koh Sirey. This operation uncovered illegal sales of e-cigarettes and contraband cigarettes, highlighting the ongoing efforts to enforce strict regulations on such products in Thailand.

The Raid: Details and Execution

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The raid was spearheaded by Phuket Provincial Defence Office Chief Akara Suwatthikul and included several Provincial Defence officials. Personnel from the Phuket branch of the Volunteer Defence Corps (OrSor) also participated as enforcers. Armed with a warrant from the Phuket Provincial Court, the task force targeted a shop located in Ratsada, east of Phuket Town on Koh Sirey.

Arrest and Charges

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During the raid, officials reported the arrest of one individual, whose identity was not disclosed. The arrested individual now faces multiple charges, including:

1. Possession of Untaxed Goods: Under Section 203 of the Excise Act B.E. 2560, the individual is charged with possessing goods that have either not been taxed or have incomplete tax payments.
2. Sale of Untaxed Goods: Under Section 204 of the Excise Act B.E. 2560, the charge extends to the sale or possession for sale of such untaxed goods.
3. Customs Violations: The individual is also charged under Sections 242 and 246, first paragraph, of the Customs Act B.E. 2560. This includes the concealment, distribution, or transport of goods known to be associated with violations, in conjunction with the Ministry of Commerce's notification prohibiting the import of baraku and e-cigarettes into Thailand.
4. Consumer Protection Violations: Violating Consumer Protection Board Order No. 9/2558, which bans the sale of baraku, electronic baraku, e-cigarettes, and related products.

Seized Goods and Legal Proceedings

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The official report did not specify the number or type of items seized during the raid, nor their street value through sales. However, it was confirmed that the arrested individual was taken to Phuket City Police Station for further legal proceedings.

Impact and Enforcement

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This raid underscores the Thai authorities' commitment to cracking down on the illegal sale of e-cigarettes and baraku. Thailand has strict regulations regarding the sale and possession of these products, aiming to curb their use and prevent untaxed goods from entering the market. The involvement of multiple enforcement agencies highlights the coordinated efforts to address these violations and uphold the law.

Conclusion

The recent raid on Koh Sirey and the subsequent arrest reflect ongoing efforts by Thai authorities to enforce regulations against the illegal sale of e-cigarettes and baraku. As the legal proceedings continue, this case serves as a warning to others involved in similar activities that the authorities are vigilant and ready to take action to protect consumer interests and uphold the law.