Phuket strikes: Illegal e-cigarettes for children confiscated!

Phuket strikes: Illegal e-cigarettes for children confiscated!

Phuket is currently in turmoil as authorities recently carried out a targeted raid on an illegal vape shop near Cherng Talay Wittaya School. The raid followed numerous complaints from members of the public concerned about the sale of e-cigarettes to young people. Governor Saran Sak Srikruaet gave the order for the search, which took place on November 9, 2025. 60 illegal e-cigarettes and a cash amount of 6,520 baht (around 163 euros) were seized. A suspected trader has been arrested and is now facing multiple charges for violations of the Customs Act and the Department of Commerce. All evidence was confiscated.

The e-cigarettes, with colorful flavors such as strawberry, mango and mint, particularly appeal to the young target group and have increased in popularity in recent years. Teachers and parents at the neighboring school expressed concern about the growing prevalence of such products among students. This is part of a larger issue that also concerns the Thai government, as the sale of e-cigarettes has been strictly banned in the country since 2014. The ban covers the import, sale, possession and use of e-cigarettes, liquids and tobacco heaters.

Government intervenes

The increasing prevalence of e-cigarettes among young people has prompted the Thai government to take action. Jiraporn Sindhuprai, Minister in the Prime Minister's Office, announced that in addition to repressive measures, educational work would also be carried out. The government has already strengthened border controls and is improving cooperation with various authorities to identify the networks behind the illegal trade. So far there have been over 5,800 tips received via a government app, which has encouraged the police to take concrete action.

Legal consequences

Thai law imposes drastic penalties for violating the smoking ban, ranging from fines of up to 30,000 baht (approximately $910) to imprisonment of up to 5 years. Anyone who imports e-cigarettes illegally can face up to 10 years in prison. These strict regulations apply not only to locals, but also to tourists caught in Thailand.

Police have significantly increased controls in popular tourist areas such as Phuket, Koh Samui and Bangkok. If you want to abide by the law, you should not bring e-cigarettes with you, do not purchase them in Thailand, and avoid vaping in public. Legal alternatives are rare and are usually limited to nicotine chewing gum or patches.

The initiative by local authorities in Phuket is part of a broader strategy aimed at protecting the health of young people and curbing dangerous trends. Further arrests and raids are to be expected in the near future in order to ensure a clear cut with the illegal market.