Phuket —
The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) Region 8, together with local police, public health officials, and municipal officers, conducted a joint inspection of a cannabis shop in Wichit subdistrict, Phuket, following complaints from residents about illegal activities and public nuisance.
More than 20 officers took part in the operation after locals reported strong odors of cannabis and alleged sales of bottled kratom drinks mixed with cough syrup. The shop, located just 600 meters from Wat Thepnimit School, was deemed a high-risk area for youth exposure.
Findings and Legal Action
- Kratom violations: Authorities confirmed the sale of 1.5-liter bottles of kratom drink, which is prohibited within 1,000 meters of educational institutions. The shop also failed to display mandatory warning signs. The ONCB imposed a fine of 5,000 baht under Section 25 of the Kratom Plant Act (2022).
- Cannabis violations: Public health officials found customers openly consuming cannabis inside the premises. The shop was also selling cannabis flowers and products to individuals without proper licenses.
This marked the third offense by the same establishment. Previously, the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office had suspended its cannabis sales license twice, each for 30 days. Despite these penalties, the shop continued to flout regulations.
