Picture courtesy of Daily News.

 

Police from the Metropolitan Police Bureau (MPB) have raided a condominium in the Rama III area, uncovering a large-scale illegal operation producing vape cartridges (commonly known as “Pod K”) laced with illicit substances. A Chinese national was arrested at the scene.

 

The operation was launched following the arrest of a Thai national found selling vape products containing Etomidate, an anaesthetic now classified as a Category 2 narcotic under Thai law. Acting on this lead, Pol. Col. Santikorn Kornkasem, commander of the MPD unit, ordered an expanded investigation, which was led by Pol. Lt. Col. Chadah Sesawet, Pol. Lt. Col. Chakree Nareephon, and Pol. Lt. Col. Rachata Poompunmuang.

 

Their inquiries led to a condo believed to be the central hub for the manufacture of the illegal vape cartridges. Upon receiving court approval, officers raided the premises, seizing over 10 large gallons of vape liquid, 1,500 ready-to-sell cartridges and more than 20,000 components and tools used in production. The estimated street value of the seized goods exceeds 3 million baht.

 

Police also discovered 2.8 grams of ketamine, a controlled substance, within the room. The sole occupant, a male Chinese national, was taken into custody.

 

Authorities have charged him with multiple offences, including:

 

• Possession and intent to distribute banned vape products, in violation of Thailand’s 2014 Ministry of Commerce prohibition on importing hookahs and e-cigarettes;

 

• Violation of the Consumer Protection Board Order No. 9/2558, which bans the sale of hookahs, electronic hookahs, and related products;

 

• Possession of a Category 2 narcotic (ketamine) without authorisation;

 

• Customs violations under Sections 242 and 246 of the Customs Act.

 

The suspect and all seized items have been transferred to Bang Phongphang Police Station for further legal proceedings.

 

This raid marks another step in Thailand’s intensified crackdown on illegal vape and narcotics trade, particularly in urban areas where foreign nationals are increasingly involved in such operations.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Daily News 2025-07-31

 

 

 

People forget there is always a neighbour willing to turn you in.

Why do the Chinese think they can be so obvious and get away with anything?

Tip of the iceberg.