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Pictures courtesy of Naewna   Authorities have seized 22,200 kilograms of acetic acid suspected of being destined for large-scale illicit drug production, following a joint inspection at Laem Chabang Port, Chon Buri, on 17 November 2025. The operation was led by Justice Minister Pol Lt Gen Rutthaphon Naowarat alongside senior officials from the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), Customs Department, Industrial Works Department and Narcotics Suppression Bureau. Officials confirmed that the shipment, imported from Hong Kong, lacked the required import permit and registration and was being monitored under the “No Chemical No Drugs” initiative.   The ONCB launched the inspection after receiving intelligence from the Customs Department, which had been monitoring chemical imports with potential links to drug production. Coordination with the Industrial Works Department revealed that a company had imported 740 drums of acetic acid, each weighing 30 kilograms, without proper authorisation. The shipment was intercepted at Laem Chabang Port and held for further investigation into its intended use.   Authorities explained that acetic acid plays a critical role as a reagent in producing precursor substances used in methamphetamine tablets, crystal methamphetamine (ice), and heroin. Based on chemical conversion estimates, the seized quantity could have enabled the production of approximately 27,750 kilograms of crystal meth, around 1.4 billion methamphetamine tablets, or roughly 74,000 kilograms of heroin. Officials stressed that the interception prevented significant volumes of illicit drugs from entering both Thai and international markets.   ONCB representatives noted that the incident highlights the risk posed by precursor chemicals if they escape regulatory control, given their global impact on trafficking routes and public safety. The operation demonstrated the importance of cross-agency cooperation, involving ONCB, Customs, the Industrial Works Department, and the Narcotics Suppression Bureau, under the Seaport Interdiction Task Force (SITF). Authorities stated that strict monitoring remains essential to safeguard Thailand and neighbouring regions from chemical diversion.   Under Thai law, acetic acid is classified as a Type 3 hazardous substance requiring registration and an import licence under the Hazardous Substances Act 1992. It is also listed under a 2016 Ministry of Justice regulation governing chemical controls aimed at preventing the illegal manufacture of narcotics. While widely used in legitimate industries, including plastics, rubber, printing, dyes, food preservation and organic synthesis, acetic acid remains tightly regulated due to its dual-use potential.   Naewna reported that investigators will now examine the importing company’s documentation, compliance history and potential links to drug networks. Further legal proceedings will follow if violations of hazardous-substance or narcotics-related regulations are confirmed. Authorities say continued vigilance at international ports will remain a priority to prevent precursor chemicals from entering illicit supply chains.     Key Takeaways   • Officials seized 22,200 kg of acetic acid imported without permits and suspected for illicit drug production. • The chemicals could have produced methamphetamine, crystal meth, or heroin in extremely large quantities. • Multiple agencies are continuing investigations under Thailand’s strict chemical-control framework.   Related Stories   Justice-minister-inspects-chemical-precursor-controls-at-border/   DSI-raids-5-sites-seizes-18-million-litres-of-drug-precursor-chemicals       Adapted  by  Asean  Now from Naewna 2025-11-19        

Pictures courtesy of TMN   Chonburi immigration police led by Pol Col Napasphong Khositsuriyamanee raided a house on 17 November 2025, in Soi Sukhumvit Pattaya 57, uncovering 17 Indian nationals, most of whom had overstayed their permission to stay. The operation aimed to dismantle what authorities suspected was a safe house for illegal foreign workers.   Authorities observed a man acting suspiciously outside the property before entering. Inside, Indian nationals were found spread across multiple rooms and were taken out for inspection. Initial checks revealed 15 of the 17 had overstayed their permission to stay, while two held valid tourist visas and were under investigation for possible links to the overstayers.   According to statements through an interpreter, one of the workers claimed they had been brought to Thailand by an Indian broker who promised employment in Pattaya. The broker allegedly confined the workers in the house until their stamps expired. Police suspect the property served as a temporary holding point for foreign workers before being sent to jobs elsewhere in the city.   The raid highlights ongoing concerns over illegal labour networks in Pattaya and the exploitation of foreign workers. Immigration authorities emphasised that overstaying poses legal risks for both employees and brokers involved. Officials are also investigating whether additional individuals are connected to the operation.   Chonburi immigration police plan to deport all 15 overstayers and continue expanding their investigation. Further legal action may be taken against brokers who facilitate illegal employment. Authorities stated that they will maintain vigilance over similar safe houses to prevent repeat incidents.       Key Takeaways   • 17 Indian nationals were found in a Pattaya safe house, with 15 overstaying. • Workers reported being brought in by a broker who promised jobs but confined them. • Authorities plan deportations and further investigations into the operation.   Related Stories   Austrian-man-arrested-in-phuket-for-visa-overstay   Overstay-Chinese-man-arrested-in-Pattaya-for-tour-work     Adapted  by  Asean  Now from TMN 2025-11-19        

yes, i know how the brake system works on heavy equipment, it locks the brakes if theres something wrong with it

I'm impressed that Eddie Grant didn't miss a beat.