Pattaya Police Raid Convenience Store, Seize 600 Illegal Vapes
In a decisive late-night operation, Pattaya police dismantled an illegal e-cigarette hub disguised as a convenience store, seizing over 600 vape-related items and arresting three individuals.
The raid took place on August 30 at 12:36 a.m., when Banglamung Police, led by Police Colonel Sarawut Nootnarut, along with Police Lieutenant Colonel Kornphong Sukwisit and Police Sub-Lieutenant Thongthawat Phonlakhon, stormed a property at 112/13-14, Soi Phornprapanimit 2, Pattaya.
Although the storefront appeared to be a regular minimart, investigators discovered it was covertly operating as a comprehensive e-cigarette distribution center. Reports from concerned residents tipped off authorities, leading to the discovery.
Inside, officers uncovered over 600 vape products, including e-cigarette devices, flavored pods, disposable vapes, and coils. The items were neatly arranged in glass display cabinets and racks within a hidden air-conditioned backroom. To further mask the operation, the shop—operating under the name Orderve—sold everyday goods at the front, disguising its primary illegal trade.
Attempted Bribery and Arrests
The operator, identified only as “A”, was detained along with two employees. Police also seized 20,000 baht (US$620) in cash believed to be proceeds from vape sales. During the raid, one individual attempted to bribe the officers in hopes of dropping the case, but police rejected the offer and warned of additional charges for bribery.
When questioned, A admitted the store had been discreetly selling e-cigarettes for over four months. The shop originally operated as a fruit vendor before shifting to a convenience store format in order to deflect suspicion from the unusual customer activity.
Repeat Offender
This was not the first time the Orderve shop faced police intervention. Authorities confirmed the business had been raided multiple times in the past for illegal vape sales, but continued reopening at new locations while pretending to operate as a legitimate store.
Despite government efforts to curb vaping—citing health concerns and strict anti-e-cigarette policies—the shop repeatedly defied regulations, making it a recurring target for law enforcement.
Ongoing Crackdown
Following the raid, the suspects and seized items were transferred to Banglamung Police Station for further legal proceedings.
Police reiterated their stance that they will intensify enforcement against illegal vape distribution in Pattaya and beyond, stressing the importance of protecting public health and upholding Thailand’s vaping ban.
The crackdown serves as another reminder that while vaping remains popular in underground markets, Thai authorities are committed to eliminating illegal e-cigarette trade across the country.
