Crime Suppression Division police raided an illegal beauty enhancement drug den hidden in a condominium in Wang Thonglang, seizing over 1,000 pieces of unregistered botox and fillers imported from abroad, valued at more than 3 million baht.
On 1 Sep, Pol. Maj. Gen. Kongkrit Lertsittikul, commander of the Crime Suppression Division, ordered Pol. Col. Weerapong Klaythong, chief of Division 4, and Pol. Lt. Col. Peeradon Kongthap, inspector of Division 4, to lead a raid on an online medical device and drug distribution site in Wang Thonglang district, Bangkok. They seized 35 types of unregistered botox and fillers, totaling over 1,291 pieces, valued at more than 3 million baht.
The operation followed complaints from the public about unregistered beauty enhancement drugs sold for use in aesthetic clinics, such as botox and fillers, which, if injected into the body especially the face, could cause allergic reactions or harm to patients.
Subsequent investigation revealed a condominium in Wang Thonglang was being used to store and sell both registered and unregistered drugs and medical devices online, popular among beauty clinics, including botox, fillers, vitamins, and weight loss pens. A court warrant was obtained to search the premises, where they found Mr. Siwa (surname withheld), 32, who led the officers to the seized items totaling 1,291 pieces worth over 3 million baht.
Further investigation found the products were imported from abroad and then stored in the condo to evade police inspection and facilitate distribution. Mr. Siwa packed and shipped orders under instructions from a Vietnamese owner, operating for about two months. He was initially charged with unauthorized sale of drugs, sale of unregistered drugs, unauthorized sale of medical devices, and sale of unregistered medical products.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Nattasak said this operation cuts off the supply chain of illegal drugs and medical devices infiltrating the beauty industry. The location lacked temperature control or proper storage standards required by law. Using such products on the public may reduce effectiveness due to product deterioration or cause severe allergic reactions, disfigurement, or even fatal harm.