A significant breakthrough in Thailand’s ongoing crackdown on illegal e-cigarette distribution occurred with the arrest of a major distributor. The suspect, a 56-year-old man with a criminal history, was taken into custody for violating consumer protection laws and distributing prohibited goods. Despite his arrest, he claimed to be merely a coordinator rather than the business owner.
On March 16, Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom, Metropolitan Police Commissioner, alongside senior officials from the Metropolitan Police Bureau, conducted the operation based on an arrest warrant issued by the Nonthaburi Provincial Court on March 7. The suspect was charged with selling banned electronic cigarettes and refills, as well as concealing and distributing items illegally imported into Thailand.
The investigation stemmed from a prior raid on March 7, when police officers from the city and Region 1 Provincial Police searched a warehouse in Nonthaburi. Two suspects were arrested during that raid, and approximately 30,000 electronic cigarettes and refills were confiscated. Further inquiries linked the contraband to the suspect, leading to the issuance of his arrest warrant.
On March 14, around noon, Metropolitan Police successfully tracked down and apprehended the suspect. Authorities revealed that he had a prior conviction for drug-related offenses, having served more than 11 years in prison for crimes involving crystal methamphetamine.
During interrogation, the suspect admitted to the charges but insisted that he was not the true owner of the illegal business. Instead, he claimed his role was limited to coordinating operations between financiers and branch employees, collecting payments from various stores, and delivering the money to the actual owner—allegedly a Chinese associate.
As the investigation continues, police are working to uncover more evidence and identify the masterminds behind the operation. A Mercedes-Benz linked to the case was seized for further examination and handed over to Mueang Nonthaburi police. Meanwhile, the suspect was transferred to Bang Si Mueang police to face formal charges.
Authorities have reiterated their warning to the public, especially young people, about the legal consequences of possessing and selling e-cigarettes. Violators could face prosecution under multiple laws, including Section 246 of the Customs Act, in addition to breaching the Ministry of Commerce’s ban on such products.
