Bangkok Raid Nets Over 845 Million Baht in Illicit Cigarettes and Liquor
BANGKOK — April 11, 2025 | A coordinated raid by the Metropolitan Police and the Department of Excise led to the seizure of a massive cache of contraband goods valued at over 845 million baht (US$25 million) and the arrest of a 37-year-old Chinese national.
The crackdown, launched at 7 a.m. across seven targeted locations, focused on key sites including a residence in the Ekkamai–Ram Inthra area, a business premises in Rama 9, and a warehouse in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan.
Authorities confiscated 668,407 packs of illicit cigarettes—including foreign brands such as CHUNGHWA, BAISHA, DUIYAN, JOHN, and BAISHAN—amounting to over 14.7 million individual cigarettes, along with 23,721 bottles of imported liquor brands like Yanghe Spirit Classic and Dream of the Blue.
The suspect, identified as Ma Ming, was taken into custody at the scene and faces charges related to the illegal import and distribution of untaxed goods. A portion of the confiscated goods has been transferred to the Department of Excise for verification and further investigation.
Police Colonel Chotiwat Luengwilai stated that the operation is part of an ongoing effort to crack down on untaxed and potentially dangerous products, emphasizing fairness to legal businesses and protecting consumers from substandard goods. He added that enforcement efforts are being enhanced through inter-agency cooperation and the use of advanced technology for precision in tracking and prosecuting offenders.
All evidence and related information are now being compiled for legal proceedings, with authorities warning of strict penalties for those involved in similar activities.
