More than 22,000 illegal cigarettes seized in Koh Kaew raid

Mueang Phuket district officials seized 22,420 cigarettes during a raid on a shop in Koh Kaew on 1 October 2026, according to the district administration.

The operation took place at about 2.50pm in Moo 1 and was conducted by a special team from the Mueang Phuket District Office, supported by members of the Mueang Phuket District Volunteer Defense Corps. The team was led by district security officer Apichat Chantharawong.

Officials arrested the 62-year-old Thai man identified as the shop owner and seized 1,121 packs of cigarettes. The suspect and the seized goods were taken to Phuket City Police Station, where the case was handed to inquiry officers for further legal action.

District officials said the raid formed part of ongoing efforts to suppress the sale of illegal goods in Mueang Phuket District. Further inspections and enforcement operations will be conducted, they said.