Crime Two Cambodians Arrested in Cross-Border Cigarette Smuggling Bust

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

Authorities have dismantled a significant transnational cigarette smuggling operation, arresting two Cambodian nationals and seizing over 50,000 packs of untaxed cigarettes valued at more than 3 million baht in unpaid taxes. The estimated fines for the offenders could exceed 42 million baht.  

 

The suspects, identified as Ms. Chiva Chuoy and Mr. Nak Khoeun, both 35 years old, were apprehended at a commercial building in Bueng Cham O subdistrict, Nong Suea district, Pathum Thani province. The operation was a joint effort between the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) and the Excise Department.

 

The investigation began after authorities intercepted smaller quantities of illicit cigarettes in Bangkok and Samut Prakan. These seizures led investigators to a larger network operating in eastern Thailand, with links to Cambodian suppliers. The smuggled cigarettes were brought into Thailand through natural border crossings in Sa Kaeo province and concealed within fruit delivery trucks. 

 

Undercover officers, posing as bulk buyers, arranged a sting operation at the suspects’ warehouse. Upon arrival, Ms. Chuoy and Mr. Khoeun attempted to flee but were quickly apprehended. A subsequent search of the premises revealed 102 boxes of various cigarette brands, including counterfeit Thai brands such as Krong Thip.

 

During interrogation, the suspects confessed to operating the smuggling ring for approximately two years. Mr. Khoeun managed customer relations through online platforms, while Ms. Chuoy coordinated orders with relatives in Cambodia. They admitted to earning a profit of 20–50 baht per carton. 

 

The Excise Department estimates that the seized contraband represents over 3 million baht in unpaid taxes, with potential fines under the Excise Act reaching approximately 42 million baht.

 

This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Thai authorities in combating cross-border smuggling and the illicit tobacco trade.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-07.

 

 

 

[ikke1959]

Happily it are not vape cigarettes... That would be far worse