Phuket authorities shut down cannabis shop operating after licence revocation
Officials found a cannabis shop in Phuket's Old Town operating despite having its licence revoked and said the operator faces legal action.
Phuket authorities have taken legal action against a cannabis shop in Phuket Old Town that was found operating despite having its licence revoked for breaching relevant regulations and laws.
The inspection was carried out at about 8.30pm on 15 August by the Phuket provincial administrative special operations team, known as Manee Kram, together with the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office and territorial defence volunteers. The operation was ordered and overseen by Phuket officials, including acting security adviser Police Capt Khetrath Chansilp, Deputy Governor of Phuket, and Muang Phuket district chief Siwat Rawangkุล.
Officials said the shop was found selling cannabis after its licence had been revoked. The business name was not disclosed.
The conduct may constitute an offence under Section 46 of the Protection and Promotion of Thai Traditional Medicine Wisdom Act 1999, which covers the unauthorised sale of controlled herbs. Section 78 provides for up to one year in prison, a fine of up to B20,000, or both.
Khetrath said Phuket authorities and the provincial public health office were conducting weekly inspections in response to complaints and ongoing monitoring. He said about 30 cannabis shop licences had previously been revoked, while some businesses had resumed operating or selling cannabis.
Businesses with valid licences must comply strictly with Public Health Ministry rules, he said. Enforcement measures include licence suspensions of 30, 60 or 90 days, followed by revocation. Authorities are also discussing measures to seek the suspension of use of buildings or premises where repeated violations continue.
