Key Points
- Quantity seized: 42,260 disposable vapes
- Estimated value: THB 10.87 million (≈ USD 340,000 )
- Agencies involved: Department of Special Investigation (DSI), Thai Customs Department
- Containers seized: Seven (identified as unclaimed cargo)
- Key officials: Santi Piyathat (Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office), Ruttaphon Naowarat (Minister of Justice)
- Objective: Strengthen law enforcement, inter-agency coordination, and protect youth health
2Firsts, December 12, 2025 – According to the Thai government’s official statement and local media reports, authorities have seized over 42,260 smuggled disposable e-cigarettes valued at THB 10.87 million (USD 340,000) in a joint operation at Bangkok Port.
The seizure, conducted on December 4, was carried out by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) in collaboration with the Customs Department. The illegal products were concealed in seven unclaimed shipping containers and have been confiscated for further investigation.
Santi Piyathat, Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office overseeing the Consumer Protection Board, said the government prioritizes combating illegal goods, particularly vapes, which he described as a “silent health threat” endangering youth. He pledged stricter enforcement, tighter border control, and comprehensive investigations targeting all levels of smuggling networks.
Ruttaphon Naowarat, Minister of Justice, stated that the DSI will expedite investigations to identify and prosecute the main operators, distributors, and supporters behind the smuggling operation under applicable laws and special enforcement measures.
Ronnarong Phoolphipat, Secretary-General of the Consumer Protection Board, noted that this joint operation demonstrates a strong, coordinated mechanism to prevent illegal and harmful products from entering Thai markets. He emphasized ongoing collaboration between government, private, and civil sectors to ensure consumer safety.
Image source: matichon
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