Phuket officials deny role in Bangla Road vape trade after 10 arrests
A raid across three parts of Patong led to 10 arrests over the alleged sale and possession of illegal e-cigarettes.
Phuket officials have denied allegations that government staff helped illegal e-cigarette sellers operate on Bangla Road after a raid in Patong led to 10 arrests.
The operation began at 9pm on 17 September and covered three areas: the beachfront, Bangla Road and the far end of the street near Jungceylon shopping centre.
Officials said the raid followed complaints that e-cigarettes were being sold openly in Patong’s main tourist area. The allegations included claims that government officials had helped the trade or made it easier to operate.
The crackdown targeted not only street sellers but also suppliers and anyone arranging or facilitating the sales, according to officials. Ten people were arrested for the sale and possession of e-cigarettes.
The suspects face charges under Section 246 of the Customs Act, which covers concealing or handling goods known to be connected to an offence. The charges are linked to a Ministry of Commerce order listing e-cigarettes, hookahs and electric hookahs as prohibited imports.
