Authorities Seize 2,000 Packs of Contraband Cigarettes at Rawai Post Office

Phuket—

Provincial authorities in Phuket have intensified their crackdown on illicit trade, seizing 2,000 packs of untaxed cigarettes in a coordinated operation that brought together multiple agencies.

The operation was directed by Governor Chotnarin Kerdsom, Deputy Governor Pol. Lt. Col. Khetarat Chansilp, and Acting Provincial Chief Administrative Officer Siwatch Rawangkul. Acting on suspicions of contraband shipments, a joint task force comprising the Phuket Provincial Administrative Unit, the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) Phuket, Chalong Police Station, and the Phuket Excise Office inspected suspicious parcels at the Rawai Post Office.

Authorities discovered eight boxes containing 200 cartons, equivalent to 2,000 packs, of smuggled cigarettes. The contraband was immediately confiscated, documented, and handed over to investigators at Chalong Police Station for legal proceedings. Officials confirmed that evidence will be used to pursue charges against those involved and to trace the broader distribution network behind the illegal trade.

Provincial leaders explained that Phuket will continue to integrate efforts across law enforcement, excise, and security agencies to suppress the smuggling and sale of illegal goods. The campaign is to protect consumers, ensure fair competition, and safeguard state revenue.