The action follows an order from the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office (PPHO) directing authorities to step up enforcement against shops selling controlled herbs without proper authorisation.
Provincial police were asked to cooperate in accelerating inspections, amid concerns that a number of cannabis retailers have failed to renew their licences.
Chalong Police confirmed that its investigative team recently inspected the ‘Kan Eang’ cannabis shop in Soi Suki, off Chao Fa West Rd in Moo 9, Chalong.
A Thai woman identified herself to officers as the owner of the business. After presenting themselves as police, officers requested to see the shop’s operating licence. An inspection found that the licence had expired and had not been renewed.
Police also reported finding a document issued by the PPHO stating a prohibition on exporting, selling or processing controlled herbs for commercial purposes in cases where the licence has expired and not been renewed.
Officers seized as evidence cannabis flower clusters and related equipment.
The woman was informed she would face a charge of selling controlled herbs (cannabis flower clusters) without permission under the Thai Traditional Medicine Protection and Promotion Act B.E. 2542.
Chalong Police warned cannabis retailers to strictly comply with the law and ensure their licences are valid. Members of the public can report information about suspected illegal cannabis shops via the Chalong Police Station Facebook page or by calling 076-381247 at any time.