Authorities Seize Over 15,000 Packs of Smuggled Cigarettes in Sa Kaeo

[Georgealbert]

 

Pictures courtesy of CIB.

 

Police from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) have seized more than 15,000 packs of smuggled cigarettes, hidden by the roadside in Sai Thong Subdistrict, Khlong Hat District, Sa Kaeo. The estimated tax value of the confiscated goods exceeds six million baht.

 

On 25 March, law enforcement officials, under the direction of Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridet, Commander of the CIB, instructed officers from the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECSD) to investigate the case. Leading the operation were Pol. Maj. Gen. Thatphoom Charuprat, Commander of the ECSD, along with senior officers including Pol. Col. Wichak Tharom, Pol. Col. Chakkrit Seributr, and Pol. Col. Wiwat Chitsophakun.

 

The seized contraband included:

 

• 10,000 packs of CRAVEN Classic cigarettes

• 4,500 packs of No. 555 Gold cigarettes

• 500 packs of L&M Green cigarettes

 

Authorities discovered the cigarettes hidden in large cardboard boxes along a rural road in Sai Thong Subdistrict, approximately 3–5 kilometres from the main highway. The area is primarily agricultural, with cassava and sugarcane plantations.

 

The operation was launched following a tip-off from an informant who reported that illegal cigarettes would be smuggled into the area between 23:00 and 01:00 AM on 23 March. Officers set up surveillance but found no individuals attempting to collect the goods. As a result, they seized the cigarettes and transported them to the ECSD for further investigation.

 

The suspects involved are likely to face multiple charges, including:

 

1. Possessing and distributing illegally imported goods that have not passed through customs procedures, under the Customs Act.

 

2. Possessing or selling untaxed goods, under the Excise Tax Act.

 

Authorities have vowed to continue their efforts to prevent the smuggling of contraband goods across Thailand’s borders, emphasising the importance of cracking down on illegal trade that undermines national revenue and public health regulations.

 

Further investigations are underway to identify and apprehend those responsible for the smuggling operation.

 

-- 2025-03-26

 

 

[flyingtlger]

14 minutes ago, Georgealbert said:

Police from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) have seized more than 15,000 packs of smuggled cigarettes, hidden by the roadside in Sai Thong Subdistrict, Khlong Hat District, Sa Kaeo.

Someone didn't the grease the wheels, if you know what I mean.....