OCPB Returns 7 Million Baht to Consumers, Prepares Flood Aid

At the meeting, Supamas Isaraphakdi said the board had examined 68 consumer complaints and approved civil action in 50 cases, broken down into 30 online‑product disputes, 10 real‑estate cases, seven general‑product issues and three service‑related matters. These cover problems such as online purchases, broken condominium and land‑sale contracts, abandoned home‑construction projects, electric‑vehicle bookings, car warranties, fitness‑club memberships and domestic and overseas tour packages. The board ordered the OCPB to implement the decision promptly and monitor each case closely so victims receive justice quickly.

In the same two‑month period, the OCPB pursued criminal charges against more than 76 business operators violating consumer‑protection laws, issuing fines totalling 1.78 million baht. Of that amount, 880,000 baht has already been collected and returned to affected consumers, showing the full cycle from complaint receipt to mediation, litigation and compensation.

Regarding flood assistance, the minister said the nine‑point relief plan is progressing. Measures include vehicle‑lifting and towing services, car repairs, financial loans, insurance, manufacturer‑offered discounts, car rentals, temporary housing, home and appliance repairs, and a complaint‑handling channel, all aimed at reducing post‑flood recovery costs and preventing opportunistic overcharging.

Results so far: working with relevant agencies, the OCPB helped move 34 stranded and submerged vehicles from the Rom Kla Housing area on 7 October. The Central Garage Association of the Insurance Association is offering free damage assessments, a 20 % discount on body‑work painting and a one‑year paint‑quality guarantee. Several car manufacturers are providing parts‑and‑labour discounts and free vehicle‑condition checks according to their own terms.

For home and electrical‑appliance recovery, 10,185 people have used the HomePro relief programme, which offers free electrical‑appliance repairs up to 1,600 baht, discounted post‑flood home‑maintenance services (more than 1,200 vouchers), and Samsung providing free inspection and repair of water‑damaged appliances while cutting spare‑part costs by 50 % under its conditions. Realme offers free repairs on selected models and spare‑part discounts; OPPO allows battery replacements starting at 400 baht; Thai Watsadu reduces prices on flood‑response and recovery equipment; and Power Buy accepts old appliances for exchange, giving up to 10,000 baht extra discount, each subject to the individual company’s conditions.

Supamas Isaraphakdi concluded by stating that the public must receive genuine assistance that eases their burden, including refunds when they are wronged.