Phuket —
Authorities in Muang Phuket District have confiscated more than 700 packs of untaxed cigarettes during a targeted enforcement operation launched in response to public complaints and reports circulating on local social media.
The operation was carried out under the direction of Phuket Governor Nirut Phongsitthithawon, Deputy Governor Theerapong Chuaychu, Muang Phuket District Chief Phairoj Srilamul, and Administrative Chief Officer Sukanda Srirak.
A security team led by Thiti Boonyasthian, Deputy District Chief for Security Affairs, together with members of the Volunteer Defense Corps (OrSor), inspected a shop in Rassada Subdistrict after receiving information alleging the sale of illegal tobacco products.
Officials arrested Mr. Nan, 76, a resident of Moo 7 in Rassada, after discovering 734 packs of untaxed cigarettes along with 16 additional items believed to be connected to the illegal trade.
He is now facing charges under the Excise Act B.E. 2560 (2017), including:
- Possession of goods on which tax has not been paid or has been insufficiently paid (Section 203)
- Selling or possessing for sale goods that have not been taxed or have been insufficiently taxed (Section 204)
The raid took place at an unregistered cigarette shop located behind a DIY store on Ratsadanusorn Road (Kuku Soi), Moo 3, Rassada Subdistrict.
Authorities have transferred the suspect and all seized items to Muang Phuket Police Station for further investigation and legal proceedings.
