Illegal Chinese Goods Seized in Kalasin Convoy

[snoop1130]

 

Three trucks carrying illegal imports from China worth 20 million baht were intercepted by the police. More than 800 uncertified items were seized. The drivers, who said they were just hired to deliver the goods, were questioned.

 

On August 15, highway police halted three ten-wheel trucks filled with illegal goods from China. The intervention happened on Highway 299, between the 19th and 20th kilometers, in the Phai subdistrict of Mueang district, Kalasin province. The convoy, composed of Hino trucks, was moving from Somdet district to Kalasin province, when the officers stopped them due to the suspicions about their cargo.

 

During the inspection, the police found that the trucks were loaded with various items imported from China, which led them to call customs officials for further examination. The initial probe revealed that the cargo contained uncertified electrical appliances, counterfeit goods, hazardous materials, foreign alcohol and cigarettes, and car parts and electronics. In total, 846 items worth 20 million baht were impounded.

 

The drivers, referred to as Montree, Pongsakorn, and Chanapol (surnames not disclosed), were questioned after the discovery. They said that they had transported the goods from the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge to a warehouse in the central province. The drivers confirmed they were compensated per trip and didn't have any proper papers or knowledge about the cargo from the person who hired them.

 

In response, they said, "We were hired to transport these goods and had no idea they were illegal."

 

Further probes are being conducted to comprehend the scope of the smuggling operation and identify the culprits involved. The arrested drivers and the seized goods have been turned over to the Kalasin Police Station and customs officials for legal action.

 

The operation emphasizes the persistent problem of illegal imports penetrating Thailand, especially from neighboring nations. According to a spokesperson, the police are committed to containing such activities by focusing on thorough examinations and by cooperating with various law enforcement agencies.

 

He warned, "These illegal imports not only breach the law but also pose significant hazards to consumers due to insufficient safety standards."

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-08-16

 

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[hotchilli]

18 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

The drivers confirmed they were compensated per trip and didn't have any proper papers or knowledge about the cargo from the person who hired them.

I wonder how they got across the border under the noses of customs... 

[nakhonandy]

The drivers obviously knew they needed papers.

Of course they'll claim they didn't know the cargo was illegal, why no papers then?