Phuket raid seizes 7,560 untaxed cigarettes; 16-year-old detained
Authorities in Phuket City seized more than 7,500 untaxed cigarettes and detained a 16-year-old girl found managing an illegal cigarette shop during a court-approved raid this week.
Officials in Phuket City seized 7,560 untaxed cigarettes and detained a 16-year-old girl after raiding an illegal cigarette shop on Sri Suthat Road in Talad Yai.
Officials told the Phuket Express that Muang Phuket District officers carried out the operation this week after gathering intelligence from social media reports. Investigators obtained a search warrant from the Phuket Provincial Court before entering the premises.
Inside the shop, authorities found 378 packs of untaxed cigarettes, equivalent to 7,560 sticks, and 38 other items kept as evidence. Officials filed charges related to possession and sale of untaxed goods, as well as customs law violations.
The girl, who officials said was managing the shop, was taken into custody and handed over to investigators at Phuket City Police along with the seized evidence. Officials said her parents were notified and that procedures are being handled in compliance with child protection and juvenile justice regulations.
