Law
Nonthaburi Health Officials Fine Rattanathibet Police Station for Smoking Violation
Authorities have issued fines to both a former MP and a police station in Nonthaburi after photographic evidence showed smoking occurring inside a government facility.
On August 11, 2026, the Nonthaburi Provincial Public Health Office took action following the circulation of images showing Chalong Riewrang, a former Member of Parliament for Nonthaburi, smoking inside the operations center of the Rattanathibet Police Station. The incident occurred while police were conducting an interrogation.
According to Khaosod Online, Dr. Yutthana Homket, a senior public health official, confirmed that the provincial health office filed charges against both the individual and the police station. Under the Tobacco Products Control Act of 2017 and Ministry of Public Health regulations, government offices, workplaces, and public areas are strictly designated as smoke-free zones. Consequently, a fine of 5,000 baht was issued to the individual for smoking in a prohibited area, and a 3,000 baht fine was levied against the police station for failing to enforce the regulation.
For residents and travelers, this incident serves as a reminder that Thailand maintains strict anti-smoking laws in public and government buildings. Violations can lead to immediate fines, and authorities are increasingly utilizing social media evidence to pursue enforcement. While the fines have been issued, it remains to be confirmed if further administrative disciplinary actions will be taken against the officers on duty at the time of the incident.