BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand’s police are intensifying their fight against illegal e-cigarettes, signaling a new era of strict enforcement.
Neues Kontrollzentrum nimmt Arbeit auf
The Royal Thai Police officially launched the E-Cigarette Control Centre (ECCC) at its headquarters on June 29. The new unit is headed by Police General Nirandorn Lueamsri, the deputy national police chief. He was joined by Minister Suphamas Isarabhakdi and other key government officials from customs and the Ministry of Health.
Minister Suphamas emphasized that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s government views the spread of e-cigarettes as a serious offense. Protecting children and adolescents was identified as a primary national objective.
Sieben Beamte für harte Schlagarbeit ausgezeichnet
Prior to the center’s first meeting, seven police officers were honored for their successful efforts in dismantling illegal vape networks. This award highlighted the significant importance authorities place on combatting the black market.
Minister Suphamas stated that vaping is no longer just a health issue, but a threat to social and national security. She urged all involved agencies to significantly boost enforcement efforts.
Drei harte Prioritäten gegen die Dampfer-Szene
The minister outlined three core objectives for the crackdown. First is the comprehensive protection of minors from illegal products. Following this is the systematic dismantling of production and distribution networks.
The third priority focuses on cyber enforcement, sending a clear message to online vendors. Suphamas also proposed the establishment of a National E-Cigarette Committee and announced “vape-free school projects” in nine pilot provinces to raise awareness among students and communities.
Polizeichef nimmt Online-Handel ins Visier
Police General Nirandorn issued clear instructions to his nationwide units to escalate investigations against major manufacturers, importers, and dealers. Special attention will be given to products found with Etomidat, a sedative detected in illegal liquids.
He ordered comprehensive monitoring of online platforms to block sales sites and the development of intelligence databases on individual retailers and high-risk areas. The goal is to ensure schools and educational institutions are entirely free from illegal sales.
15-Tage-Razzia räuchert illegale Händler aus
From July 1 to 15, 2026, a nationwide raid targeting illegal e-cigarettes and untaxed tobacco products will be conducted by the Royal Thai Police. The results of this coordinated operation will be published afterward.
To financially disrupt the masterminds, authorities announced they would pursue all avenues, including anti-money laundering legislation, to dismantle the financial networks behind these illicit businesses.
Jeder kann mithelfen: App und Hotline geschaltet
The public is encouraged to assist the police in identifying illegal suppliers. Tips can be reported 24 hours a day via the hotline 1599 or the mobile application “Police Care.” This initiative significantly increases pressure on illegal networks. Individuals dealing with untaxed or drug-laced vapes in Thailand will now face severe consequences.
“The protection of children and youth was classified as a national priority.”
said Suphamas Isarabhakdi, Minister.