During Thailand’s Songkran Festival, celebrated on April 14th, the Thai Consumer Protection Police Division, under the command of Vitya Sriprasertphap, made notable arrests related to the sale of banned electronic cigarettes. Two Myanmar nationals, 42-year-old Khin and 25-year-old Hhyo, were apprehended in Sukhumvit Soi 7/1, where they were caught selling e-cigarettes and e-liquid amidst the festivities.
Details of the Operation
Location and Activity: The arrests occurred along Sukhumvit Road, from Nana Alley to the Asoke intersection—a popular area for Myanmar nationals to set up stalls selling e-cigarettes and liquids, attracting many foreign tourists.
Charges and Legal Actions:
- The vendors were charged with violating the Consumer Protection Commission’s Order No. 9/2558, which specifically prohibits the sale of e-cigarettes and e-liquid.
- Additionally, they were detained for operating without a permit in Thailand.
- Following their arrest, the individuals were transferred to Lumpini Police Station for further legal proceedings.
Implications for the Market
The confiscated items were predominantly disposable e-cigarettes from the brands QUIK and Infy, indicating their significant presence in the local market. This incident highlights the ongoing issues with unauthorized e-cigarette sales in Thailand, reflecting stringent enforcement of regulations, particularly during high-profile public events like the Songkran Festival.
This crackdown is part of a broader strategy by Thai authorities to control the proliferation of e-cigarettes, which are officially banned in the country but continue to be sold through informal channels. The action taken during the festival demonstrates the government’s commitment to uphold public health policies and consumer protection laws amidst celebrations that attract a high concentration of tourists and locals alike.
