Two Phuket Cannabis Shops Raided for Allegedly Operating Despite Licence Suspension

Authorities in Phuket have arrested the operators of two cannabis dispensaries accused of continuing to sell cannabis despite having their business licences suspended.

The coordinated operation took place on July 11 and involved officers from the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA), the Phuket Provincial Administration, the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office, Thalang District officials, and other relevant agencies.

The inspections focused on cannabis shops in Thalang and Mueang Phuket after officials received reports that some businesses were continuing commercial operations despite official suspension orders.

Following surveillance and evidence collection, enforcement teams simultaneously raided both locations.

At the shop in Thalang, officers found the business open and allegedly selling cannabis products to customers. A second inspection at a dispensary in Mueang Phuket reportedly uncovered similar violations.

Authorities arrested those responsible and confiscated evidence valued at more than 500,000 baht before transferring the suspects to investigators for further legal action.

The operators have been charged under Thailand's Thai Traditional Medicine Protection and Promotion Act (1999) for allegedly selling controlled herbal products for commercial purposes without a valid licence. The offence carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both.

Additional charges were filed under the Food Act (1979) for alleged violations of food-labelling requirements, an offence punishable by a fine of up to 30,000 baht.

Deputy Interior Minister Polapee Suwannachawi said the operation demonstrates the government's determination to enforce the law against businesses that ignore official orders or operate in violation of regulations.

He added that authorities would not allow popular tourist destinations to become centres of illegal commercial activity.

Officials also confirmed that inspections of cannabis businesses will continue across Thailand to ensure compliance with licensing requirements and maintain order in tourist areas.

The enforcement comes as the Ministry of Public Health introduces stricter cannabis regulations aimed at limiting cannabis use primarily to medical purposes, strengthening oversight of sales, and preventing misuse.