Extensive Operation Uncovers Large Smuggling Ring in Nonthaburi
PUBLISHED: 18 Mar 2025 at 15:29
Authorities in Nonthaburi province have executed a major raid, confiscating approximately 260,000 smuggled vape pipes and related products, with an estimated street value of 130 million baht. This significant operation, named “Operation Smoke Out,” resulted in searches of ten locations, including five warehouses and five residential properties.
Two suspects were taken into custody during the operation, led by police officials including Pol Maj Gen Samran Nuanma, who indicated that these individuals were merely warehouse supervisors. The illicit products are believed to belong to a Thai national who remains at large.
According to reports, the detainees were contracted at a pay rate of 20,000 baht per month for overseeing the warehouse. The seized goods, including e-liquids and vape devices, were illegally imported from China via Laem Chabang port and were intended for online sales through various retail outlets nationwide.
Pol Lt Gen Sayam Boonsom, commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, has emphasized that investigators targeted the intricate supply chains operating through online platforms and chat rooms. The illegal items were reportedly shipped via mail before reaching local shops.
Questions regarding potential police involvement arose, particularly due to the operation’s proximity to a police station. The Bangkok police chief clarified that the warehouse was owned by an ex-wife of a police officer, who was reportedly unaware of the illegal activities. Additionally, some contraband was noted to have entered Thailand from the southern borders.
