Authorities in Kamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom, were left stunned as they uncovered a thriving black market for e-cigarettes, with minors allegedly freely purchasing from a suspicious vending machine.
In a bustling market scene in Kamphaeng Saen, the Thai Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) received a tip-off from concerned locals, triggering a jaw-dropping investigation into underage vaping.
Responding swiftly to the report, CPPD operatives descended upon the market, determined to root out the illicit activity.
The CPPD’s probe revealed a disturbing truth: a clandestine vending machine peddling e-cigarettes and e-liquids, allegedly accessible to scores of unsuspecting minors. No discernible owner was found, reported Pattaya News.
The machine, along with a staggering 378 pieces of contraband, valued at 580,000 baht, were seized by authorities.
In related news, a comprehensive Vape Operation was launched at 2.30pm on Wednesday, March 6, resulting in a crackdown on major e-cigarette sales sources in various areas of Bangkok. The operation was coordinated by Dr Puangpetch Chunlaid, Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, alongside relevant agencies.
The targeted e-cigarette sales were estimated to be worth over 3 million baht. Following a detailed police investigation, Dr Puangpetch and his team conducted hands-on inspections in several areas across the city. The focus was on community areas where e-cigarette vendors were reportedly selling their products to minors and students.
In other news, a 12 year old girl from Northern Ireland secretly started vaping at the tender age of nine, leading to severe illness and a near-death experience. Her lungs’ ability to function was comparable to an 80 year old’s due to the extensive damage.
In recent years, e-cigarettes have gained popularity, initially advertised as a safer alternative to traditional smoking and a tool to help quit smoking. However, they have become a trend, mostly due to the misconception that they’re cool, smokeable, and not harmful to health.
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