Crime Police Dismantle Illegal Abortion Pill Network

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Naewna.

 

Police have raided an underground network selling illegal abortion pills online, seizing more than 3,000 items worth over one million baht and arresting seven suspects in coordinated operations across Chiang Mai and Lamphun.

 

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) led the crackdown on 20 August, after evidence emerged on social media that women were buying abortion drugs online, resulting in severe health complications. In some cases, victims suffered ruptured wombs and dangerous blood loss requiring emergency hospital treatment.

 

The raids, ordered by CIB Commissioner Police Lieutenant General Jiraphop Phuridej and carried out by the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD), uncovered 3,138 illegal products. These included abortion drugs such as Cytotec, Mifepristone and Misoprostol, pregnancy test kits, supplements and other medical items.

 

Seven suspects, six Thai nationals and one Lao woman, were arrested on charges of selling pharmaceuticals without a licence and distributing unregistered drugs. If convicted, they face up to five years in prison and fines of 10,000 baht for the first charge, and up to three years in prison and fines of 5,000 baht for the second.

 

Investigators said the network advertised abortion pills and related products through social media and websites, often using women posing as doctors to build credibility. Payments were routed through mule accounts to conceal the money trail, while products were stored with delivery companies to avoid direct links to the sellers.

 

Police warned that while abortion is legal under certain conditions in Thailand, it must be performed under medical supervision. Ordering pills online is dangerous, as incorrect dosages or use without proper medical assessment can cause life-threatening complications.

 

Police Major General Pattanask S said: “We urge the public not to buy or use drugs advertised online. All medicines, especially abortion drugs, should only be taken under the guidance of licensed doctors and pharmacists. Illegal purchases pose serious risks to both mother and unborn child.”

 

Authorities said the investigation is ongoing, with efforts to trace the wider distribution network. Citizens are encouraged to report illegal drug sales via the CPPD hotline 1135 or the official consumer protection Facebook page.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-08-22