The seizure was announced at a press conference led by Phuket Vice Governor Adul Chuthong, Phuket Provincial Police Commander Pol Maj Gen Sinlert Sukhum, Phuket Provincial Palad (Chief Administrative Officer) Rungruang Thimabut, and Capt Rewat Onla-or, Head of the Policy, Planning and Intelligence Group.
Officials explained that the investigation began after a tip-off reporting that untaxed cigarettes were being smuggled from Songkhla and Pattani provinces and sent via Thai Post to Rawai Post Office.
Following the report, Mr Rungruang and Provincial Defence Officer Danai Sukskul ordered provincial administrative officers, assistant provincial defence officers and members of the Volunteer Defence Corps (VDC) to investigate the allegation.
According to the Phuket Provincial Administration, the task force conducted inquiries in the targeted area and found information consistent with previous arrests involving shops selling untaxed cigarettes in Phuket, in line with the policy set by Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn.
Authorities concluded that the tip-off was credible and reported the findings directly to the governor. Governor Nirat subsequently instructed the provincial permanent secretary, provincial defence officers, assistant defence officers and VDC members to inspect suspicious parcels at the Rawai Post Office.
During the inspection, officials confirmed that the packages contained untaxed cigarettes. A total of 50 boxes were seized, containing 1,475 cartons or about 14,750 packs, equivalent to approximately 295,000 cigarettes.
The seized cigarettes were taken into custody as evidence. Officials estimated the damage to the state from unpaid taxes at more than B2 million.
Mr Rungruang said officers are now preparing formal seizure and investigation reports and have begun expanding the investigation to identify and prosecute all individuals involved in the smuggling network.
“This operation shows that smugglers are attempting to exploit the postal system to evade inspection and taxes,” he said. “We will pursue this case thoroughly to ensure that everyone connected to this illegal activity is brought to justice.”
Phuket Provincial Police Commander Pol Maj Gen Sinlert added that police will work closely with administrative authorities and postal officials to prevent similar cases in the future, noting that cigarette smuggling not only deprives the state of revenue but also fuels other forms of organised crime.