Phuket inspection targets cannabis shop and suspected nominee businesses in Cherng Talay
Deputy Interior Minister Polpree Suwannachawi led inspections in Cherng Talay that found a cannabis shop operating despite a suspended license and triggered a wider probe into suspected nominee businesses in Phuket.
Deputy Interior Minister Polpree Suwannachawi led an inspection in Cherng Talay, Thalang, targeting cannabis retailers and businesses suspected of operating under nominee arrangements.
Authorities inspected a cannabis outlet that was selling cannabis flowers, pre-rolled joints and cannabis-infused food items despite having a suspended license, according to the source. The shop also failed to maintain customer records or provide medical certifications, both of which are required under regulations governing cannabis for medical use. Officials said the case is under review for license revocation and possible prosecution.
Polpree ordered governors, district chiefs and relevant agencies to carry out a province-wide survey of all cannabis establishments in Phuket. Enforcement priorities include checking that licenses are valid and that conditions are being followed, preventing cannabis from being mixed into food or sold outside medical purposes, and stopping attempts to smuggle cannabis out of Thailand through airports and other channels.
Phuket has 1,089 licensed cannabis businesses, all of which will be subject to inspection, with violators facing legal action.
The inspection team also visited a hotel in Cherng Talay after reports of nominee structures and previous disputes over beach land use. Preliminary shareholder checks found Thai nationals holding stakes in multiple companies, raising concerns about proxy ownership for foreign investors.
The Interior Ministry ordered a full investigation into related companies, funding sources and financial flows to determine whether nominee arrangements or disguised foreign business operations are involved.
Polpree said the ministry would intensify enforcement nationwide against illegal cannabis use, nominee businesses and other unlawful practices, adding that the crackdown is intended to protect law-abiding entrepreneurs, uphold fairness and safeguard Phuket's reputation as a tourism destination.
