Chong Chom Customs Seizes Over 30 Million Baht in Contraband Tobacco
Chong Chom Customs officials have confiscated over 33,000 units of illegal cigarettes and e-cigarettes valued at 30 million baht following a four-month crackdown.
According to a report by Khaosod Online, Prasit Deejongcharoen, head of the Chong Chom Customs House in Surin province, announced a significant enforcement operation targeting the smuggling of tobacco products. Over the past four months, authorities have seized more than 30,000 packs of illicit cigarettes and over 3,000 e-cigarettes, with a combined estimated value exceeding 30 million baht.
The operation covers strategic areas including the Chong Chom border checkpoint in Surin, the Chong Ta-Koo border checkpoint in Buriram, and free trade zones in Nakhon Ratchasima. Officials noted that due to strict border controls enforced by the Second Army Area, customs strategies have shifted toward intensified monitoring of inland areas to combat the distribution of these goods, which are often marketed to youth via online platforms and local shops.
For residents and travelers, this crackdown highlights the ongoing legal risks associated with the possession and sale of e-cigarettes and untaxed tobacco in Thailand. Authorities have issued warnings regarding the health risks of counterfeit products, which often contain high levels of hazardous substances. While the customs office continues its proactive enforcement, the long-term impact on the availability of these products in local markets remains to be seen. Travelers are reminded that the sale and import of e-cigarettes remain strictly prohibited under Thai law.
