Phuket –
Immigration Police raided two cannabis shops in Kata Beach, uncovering illegal sales operated by foreign nationals and seizing contraband valued at more than 500,000 baht.
Phuket Immigration told the Phuket Express that the crackdown on Thursday (July 16th) was part of a nationwide policy to root out foreign nationals who enter Thailand illegally, evade prosecution abroad, or engage in unlawful work using Thai nominees.
At approximately 10:00 p.m., investigators moved in on two cannabis retail outlets suspected of employing foreigners without permits.
During the raid, police found a Thai man and a Myanmar national at the scene. The Myanmar worker was observed selling cannabis products directly to customers and managing shop operations. Authorities confirmed multiple violations, including working without proper authorization, working outside permitted conditions, and selling food products without proper labeling.
A total of 40 items were confiscated, with an estimated street value exceeding 500,000 baht. The suspects were handed over to investigators for further legal proceedings. Police stated that the investigation will expand to identify the true owners of the businesses, including possible foreign backers and Thai nominees, while coordinating with relevant agencies to review cannabis retail licenses.
