Thai Customs Accuses Businessman Tom Kruesopon of Illegal Cannabis Importation

Thai customs officials have filed a legal complaint against prominent businessman Tom Kruesopon, accusing him of illegally importing cannabis into the country. The case was reported to the Suvarnabhumi Airport Police Station following a live social media broadcast by Kruesopon, where he claimed to have imported cannabis legally. However, customs authorities argue that the declaration was false, which is a violation of the customs law

On July 26, 2022, at around 5:30 PM, authorities received a report from Manita Srita, a Bangkok resident, accompanied by customs officials. They presented evidence from a social media video where Kruesopon allegedly showcased the packaging of cannabis products purportedly imported from abroad. The investigation revealed discrepancies in the customs declaration, which listed the goods as plastic materials, not cannabis, with a declared weight of 10.9 kilograms and a value of 11,329 baht

The customs declaration indicated the goods were imported under a green line status, exempt from inspection, on July 14, 2022. The shipment was handled by Federal Express (Thailand) Co., Ltd., and customs duties were paid at a rate applicable to plastic goods. This misrepresentation has led to charges against Kruesopon and the courier company for false declaration and importing restricted goods

Police officer Apichai Supho of the Suvarnabhumi Airport Police Station confirmed that evidence has been gathered, and summonses will be issued for Kruesopon and Federal Express (Thailand) Co., Ltd. to provide further statements. If convicted, Kruesopon could face severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to 50,000 baht, or both. The case underscores the stringent regulations surrounding cannabis imports in Thailand