Police Bust Smuggled Cigarette Ring Worth 70 Million Baht

Authorities have dismantled a major cigarette smuggling operation, seizing 7,500 cartons of untaxed cigarettes valued at over 70 million baht being transported from Sangkhla Buri District in Kanchanaburi to a warehouse in Wang Noi District, Ayutthaya Province. On July 18, based on intelligence received by 9th Infantry Regiment Commander Pol. Lt. Natthaphong Aswinwong, two covered pickup trucks were spotted attempting to move the contraband by concealing it among ordinary parcels. A joint operation involving military special forces units and Kanchanaburi Provincial Police intercepted both vehicles at the Tharyoek permanent checkpoint around 8:30 p.m. and discovered numerous cardboard boxes hidden inside. Upon inspection, the contents were identified as Krong Thip brand cigarettes in soft red packs labeled "FOR EXPORT ONLY"—products exempt from taxation that are prohibited from domestic sale.

The operation resulted in the arrest of two suspects, seizure of 150 boxes (7,500 cartons) of cigarettes, two covered pickup trucks, and three mobile phones, with total damages assessed at over 70 million baht. During initial questioning, the suspects confessed to being hired to transport the parcels from a warehouse in Sangkhla Buri to another in Wang Noi, Ayutthaya, claiming this was their second such delivery. Charges have been filed under the Excise Tax Act for possession and intent to sell tax-exempt goods without legal authorization. The suspects and evidence are in custody with Tharyoek Police Station, which will proceed with formal legal action.