Report Myanmar National Arrested for Smuggling Cigarettes Worth 2M Baht

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Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

In a significant bust, a 20-year-old Myanmar national was detained for smuggling tax-evading cigarettes valued at over 2 million baht (approx. $60,500) across the Sangkhla Buri border. The illicit goods were destined for Ban Phra Chedi Sam Ong Market.

 

Yesterday, on 21st July, Police Major General Atsadawut Panyaraoon, the commander of the 9th Infantry Division, announced the operation alongside Kanchanaburi governor Athisan Intra. They had received intelligence about the smuggling activity, prompting immediate action.

 

The cigarettes were being transported through natural routes to avoid detection, a tactical choice aimed at bypassing border security measures.

 

Colonel Phannasak Phriwapanich, commander of the 29th Infantry Regiment, and Colonel Piyanes Phatrasasawatwong, deputy commander of the Lat Ya Task Force, coordinated efforts with the Border Patrol Police Company 134 and Sangkhla Buri district officials. They set up a patrol and surveillance operation near Ban Bo Ye Poon in the Nong Lu subdistrict.

 

By the afternoon, the authorities heard a motorcycle approaching. On investigation, they discovered a 20-year-old, named Aos, riding a motorcycle with a sidecar, registration number 761 Kanchanaburi. The sidecar was laden with suspicious items concealed beneath a blue tarpaulin.

 

Upon thorough inspection, security personnel unearthed 2,000 packs of untaxed cigarettes hidden inside white plastic bags. The contraband, intended for sale at Ban Phra Chedi Sam Ong Market, had been smuggled from Myanmar to evade Thai taxes.

 

When questioned, Aos admitted he was hired to transport the cigarettes to the market in Sangkhla Buri. Following the seizure, the police confiscated the goods and took Aos into custody at the Sangkhla Buri Police Station for legal proceedings.

 

This operation underscores the continued efforts by Thai authorities to combat smuggling activities and protect local revenue streams. The collaboration between different divisions signifies the importance of inter-agency cooperation in curbing illegal cross-border trade.

 

As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether this arrest will lead to further crackdowns on the network behind this smuggling operation. Authorities have hinted at ongoing efforts to dismantle such networks and prevent future breaches along the border.

 

The incident highlights the persistent challenge of border control and the measures needed to bolster security in these vulnerable areas. For the people of Kanchanaburi, and indeed Thailand, it’s a stark reminder of the risks posed by unchecked smuggling activities and the need for vigilance in protecting local commerce.

 

This arrest marks a crucial step in deterring future incidents and demonstrates a firm stance against illegal trade. For now, the people of Kanchanaburi can breathe a little easier, knowing that their security forces are actively working to keep their borders safe from unlawful activities.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-22