CIB Arrests Man for Selling Contraband Cigarettes via Facebook

Pictures courtesy of CIB.

Officers from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), working under the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECSD), have arrested a Thai man for allegedly selling untaxed and counterfeit cigarettes via online platforms. The suspect, identified as Mr. Kittiphong (alias “Yo” or “Tae”), was apprehended at a residence in Soi Khajornwit, Phraeksa Mai Subdistrict, Mueang District, Samut Prakan Province.

The arrest follows an ongoing joint investigation conducted by the ECSD, the Thailand Tobacco Monopoly and the Excise Department. The operation aims to combat the smuggling and sale of foreign and counterfeit cigarettes evading tax obligations.

Authorities first made significant progress on 2 May 2025 when two Cambodian nationals, one male and one female, were arrested for distributing more than 50,000 boxes of illicit cigarettes via Facebook. Investigators discovered that the suspects were part of a broader network engaged in similar activities.

One Facebook page used to distribute the illegal products was identified as “JE YA,” operated by a Cambodian woman. Further investigations revealed that a major customer using the alias “Tae” frequently placed large orders and redistributed the cigarettes through his own platforms. He operated a Facebook page called “KING DROM SMOK,” which had over 3,000 followers, and another page titled “Krongthip 90” with over 2,500 followers.

Surveillance at Mr. Kittiphong’s residence confirmed suspicious activity. Officers observed the suspect receiving large boxes, which he transported inside the property. Upon investigation, police identified the boxes as containing “Krongthip” brand cigarettes, a product intended solely for export. A search of the premises uncovered a total of over 1,620 cartons of cigarettes, including both genuine and counterfeit packs.

Mr. Kittiphong was charged with multiple offences under Thai law, including possession and distribution of untaxed goods, and handling goods known to be illegally imported or not cleared through customs.

The operation was carried out under the direction of Police Lieutenant General Jiraphop Bhuridej, Commissioner of the CIB; Police Major General Tasanapoom Charuprat; and Acting Police Colonel Naruephon Karuna.

Authorities have vowed to continue their crackdown on illegal tobacco distribution networks across the country.

Related article:

https://aseannow.com/topic/1359973-two-cambodians-arrested-in-cross-border-cigarette-smuggling-bust/

  Adapted by Asean Now from CIB 2025-05-14.