PHUKET - Authorities have seized 32 illegal hookah sets, known as “Baragu” in Thai, from a shop in Muang district that caters to tourists.
The premises were raided about 8.30pm on Monday by a special operations team from the Muang Phuket district office and members of the Muang Phuket District Volunteer Defence Corps. It followed a complaint that the shop on Ka Road in Talat Yai was selling hookah products to tourists. (continues below)
An undercover officer was sent to make a purchase. Officials then entered the premises and arrested the person who identified themself as the manager. They seized 32 hookah sets and related equipment.
The operation was conducted under the direction of Phuket governor Chotinarin Kerdsom, deputy governor Pol Lt-Col Khetrat Chansilp and Muang Phuket district chief Sivach Rawanakun, serving as acting permanent secretary of Phuket province.
Officials found six Myanmar nationals were employed by the shop. They were working outside the scope of their work permits and had failed to report the change of employer, authorities said. (continues below)
The manager faces several charges, including possession or sale of goods linked to customs offences, illegal sale and offering for sale of hookah products and e-cigarettes, and selling alcohol without a licence.Authorities also cited violations relating to the employment and registration of foreign workers.
The suspect and seized items were handed over to investigators at Chalong police station for legal proceedings.
The operation was part of the government's campaign against illegal activities and efforts to strengthen safety standards for tourists. Phuket authorities said inspections of entertainment venues would continue in cooperation with other agencies.
