Crackdown on Illegal Vape Sales Near Schools in Ayutthaya

Authorities in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya have cracked down on the illegal sale of vapes near schools, seizing products worth 1.6 million baht. This operation, led by the Consumer Protection Committee, aims to safeguard children's health from nicotine addiction.

The Secretary-General of the Consumer Protection Committee, Thosarat Thanitiphan, assigned a special task force led by Lertsak Raktham, the Director of the Consumer Protection Board (CPB). Their mission was to target the illegal sale of electronic cigarettes.

CPB officials, along with other officers, inspected stores in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province that were secretly selling vapes and e-liquids, particularly around schools in the Bang Pa-in and Uthai districts. They discovered these items had been sold in these areas for quite some time.

All vapes and e-liquids, valued at approximately 1.6 million baht, were seized and handed over to the police in Bang Pa-in and Uthai for further legal action against the sellers.

Thosarat mentioned that the CPB, in cooperation with Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya authorities, has consistently enforced laws against the illegal sale of vapes and e-liquids, following the policies of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and relevant ministers.

Jiraporn Sinthupiphat, the minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, instructed the CPB to continue these operations due to the illegal nature and health risks of electronic cigarettes, especially for children and adolescents as schools reopen.

Officials stressed the need to enhance law enforcement to protect consumers from these harmful products. Selling electronic cigarettes and e-liquids illegally is punishable under Consumer Protection Committee Order No. 9/2558, which bans their sale or service provision. Violators can face up to three years in prison, a fine of up to 600,000 baht, or both.

During the school reopening period, the CPB must ensure the safety of children and adolescents from such hazardous products, according to Daily News.