Songkhla: The Excise Department has announced the outcomes of its intensified crackdown on illegal activities in southern Thailand, with tobacco identified as the most seized item. The operation, focused on excise law violations, resulted in 622 cases and fines totaling 245.55 million baht.
According to Thai News Agency, the crackdown was conducted by the Excise Department Region 9 across seven southern provinces during February and March 2016. The operation saw a significant 119% increase in fines and estimated losses compared to the previous year. Tobacco remained the most frequently violated product, prompting the department to upgrade its management of confiscated goods through the development of an innovative tobacco destruction machine. This initiative aims to minimize environmental impact and explore potential uses in the agricultural and industrial sectors.
Dr. Pornchai Theeravech, Director-General of the Excise Department, visited Songkhla province to follow up on the progress and announce the results of the crackdown on illegal goods. The operation was part of the "Proactive Suppression, Ending the Illegal Cycle" policy implemented by Excise Region 9 and involved the Excise Offices in seven strategically important provinces. The apprehended cases accounted for 8.83% of all cases nationwide, highlighting the effectiveness of the policy in this challenging area.
The crackdown revealed that tobacco was the most frequently seized item, with 317 cases leading to fines totaling 5.84 million baht and a loss of 12.54 million baht in tax revenue. An estimated 232.11 million baht in fines was levied. Authorities seized 200,106 packs of tobacco, including 22,030 packs of domestic tobacco and 178,076 packs of imported tobacco. This marked an increase of over 50,000 packs compared to the previous year, largely due to efforts to disrupt distribution routes in the region. Other seized items included liquor, oil and petroleum products, beverages, playing cards, and gambling products disguised as beverages.
The operation aligns with the department's policy of dismantling illegal networks through data-driven enforcement and collaboration with relevant agencies. Efforts focused on border surveillance, smuggling route interception, and the application of technology to effectively respond to evolving crime forms.
Dr. Pornchai also highlighted the innovative approach to managing confiscated tobacco products. The Excise Region 9 developed a "Tobacco Confiscation Destruction Machine" to replace traditional burning methods, adhering to the Zero Waste principle. This innovation supports agricultural projects and creative industries by repurposing confiscated tobacco. Other seized goods, such as liquor and motorcycles, are being used beneficially to support educational and community initiatives.
The Excise Department is committed to continuing its efforts to disrupt illegal trade networks while maximizing the benefits of seized goods. The initiative aims to protect the economy and society while adhering to the "EXCISE EXerCISE" philosophy to enhance operational efficiency and benefit the wider community.