Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

Authorities have intercepted more than 15 million contraband cigarettes and other smuggled goods valued at over 63 million baht in Mae Sot, Tak Province, in a crackdown on cross-border smuggling.

 

The announcement came from Mr Pichaya Charoensun, Chief of Mae Sot Customs, at a press briefing held with representatives from the army’s Ratchamanu Task Force, the Mae Sot Police Station, the 346th Border Patrol Police Company, local administrative officials and the Tak Immigration Office.

 

Mr Pichaya said the operation was part of an intensified effort to prevent illegal imports under the guidance of Customs Department Director-General Mr Theerachai Attavanich. “We have strengthened surveillance and enforcement along the border to prevent the smuggling of prohibited goods that undermine Thailand’s economy,” he stated.

 

The joint operation included patrolling border areas and inspecting transport operators in the region. Officials seized 15,713,080 cigarettes that had been smuggled without passing customs procedures. The seizure constitutes a serious violation under the Customs Act, with the goods subject to confiscation and further legal action.

 

“This successful operation reflects close coordination between customs, military, police and local authorities,” Mr Pichaya added. “We remain committed to preventing illegal activities and protecting public safety in line with the Customs Department’s vision.”

 

Authorities have vowed to maintain tight monitoring along the border to deter further smuggling attempts.

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-08-27

 

 

 

I understand seizing illicit cigs - denies the people the money. What I don't understand just like in the UK where they are destroyed or incinerated for fuel why not just slap duty on them & then sell them - coffers to the Government?