CIB Raids Firm Over Modified TV Boxes Breaching Copyrights

Pictures courtesy of CIB

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has raided a company in Nonthaburi for allegedly modifying digital television boxes to illegally distribute copyrighted films, seizing thousands of devices believed to be intended for unlawful commercial use. The operation resulted in the confiscation of a large quantity of Android TV boxes and the launch of a formal investigation into those responsible, highlighting the scale of suspected copyright infringement affecting the film industry.

The raid was carried out by officers from the Economic Crime Suppression Division under the CIB, acting on a search warrant issued by the Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court. Police searched a company premises in Pak Kret district, Nonthaburi province, on suspicion of copyright infringement for commercial purposes through the unauthorised reproduction, modification and public dissemination of cinematographic works.

According to police, the investigation began after officers from Sub-Division 1 of the Economic Crime Suppression Division received a complaint alleging that the company was illegally infringing film copyrights. The complaint stated that copyrighted movies were being copied, altered and distributed to the public without permission from the lawful copyright holders, causing significant damage to filmmakers and the wider film industry.

Investigators conducted surveillance and gathered evidence until they were confident that an offence had been committed. They then sought and obtained a court warrant to inspect the premises. During the search, officers presented the warrant to the site manager before entering and conducting a detailed inspection, accompanied by authorised representatives of the affected rights holders.

The search uncovered 6,939 Android TV boxes stored within the company, allegedly prepared for modification or sale. Police believe the devices were intended to enable access to copyrighted films without authorisation. All items were seized as evidence and transferred to investigators at Sub-Division 1 of the Economic Crime Suppression Division for further examination and legal proceedings.

Senior officers overseeing the operation included Pol Lt Gen Nattasak Chawanasai, Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau, Pol Maj Gen Thatphum Jarupratchaya, Commander of the Economic Crime Suppression Division, and Acting Pol Col Phuwadet Julkasewee, Superintendent of Sub-Division 1. The operation was led on the ground by Pol Capt Wissarut Thaichanart and officers from Sub-Division 1.

Police said the investigation will be expanded to identify all individuals involved and to pursue charges under Thai law. Authorities stressed that enforcement efforts are aimed at protecting intellectual property rights and preventing economic harm to legitimate creators and businesses.

Key Takeaways

• Police seized 6,939 Android TV boxes allegedly prepared for illegal modification or sale.

• The raid followed a complaint and court-issued warrant from the Intellectual Property Court.

• Investigators are expanding the case to pursue all parties involved under the law.

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 Adapted by Asean Now from CIB 2025-12-31