Factory Raided in Bang Pahan: Over 256 Tonnes of E-Waste & Car Parts Seized

Picture courtesy of Matichon.

Environmental police, in coordination with the Department of Industrial Works, have raided a clandestine factory in Bang Pahan district, Ayutthaya province, uncovering a massive illegal stockpile of electronic waste and car parts weighing over 256 tonnes.

The operation was led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Watcharin Pusit, Commander of the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Division (NRECD), who directed his team, including senior officers from Division 2 of the NRECD and provincial industry officials, to inspect the premises located in Village 6 of Bang Pahan sub-district.

The investigation followed the arrest earlier this month of a 48-year-old man, Mr Sarawut, for illegal possession of hazardous materials, including electronic components and batteries containing mercury, without the required permits, in violation of Thailand’s Hazardous Substances Act. He was charged and handed over to Khlong Luang Police Station for prosecution.

Further inquiry into the origin of the waste led authorities to the company in Bang Pahan. Upon inspection, officials discovered a facility operating under the guise of a material-sorting business for non-hazardous waste. The company was managed by a Chinese national, who holds the position of managing director and was present during the search.

Initial findings revealed a large warehouse filled with industrial-scale machinery. Outside the building, investigators found towering piles of electronic scrap, vehicle parts, and contaminated oil drums. The total volume of waste exceeded 256 tonnes.

Authorities seized the materials as evidence and have initiated legal proceedings through Bang Pahan Police Station. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the illegal operations and whether additional environmental or criminal offences were committed.

  Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-12.