Thai Authorities Raid Shop Selling Kratom Drinks to Teens in Banglamung
BANGKOK, Thailand – Thai authorities raided a Banglamung shop in the early hours of April 1, 2025, seizing illegal kratom beverages and arresting a 20-year-old woman for selling the drinks to teenagers.
Undercover Operation Uncovers Illegal Sales
The raid, led by Banglamung District Chief Patcharapat Sritanyanon, was prompted by local complaints about a shop selling kratom-infused drinks to minors. Authorities deployed an undercover agent, who successfully purchased kratom from a shop named “Bak Khon Sua” in Village 8, confirming the allegations.
Teenagers Found Consuming Kratom On-Site
Upon raiding the premises, officers discovered over 20 teenagers, both male and female, consuming kratom drinks at tables, accompanied by ice buckets and drinking containers. Additional kratom beverages were found in a refrigerator, along with cough syrup mixed with kratom and illegal cigarettes.
Shop Caretaker Arrested, Large Kratom Seizure
The shop functioned as both a grocery store and a social hangout, providing picnic-style tables for on-site consumption. Authorities confiscated 150 bottles of kratom (each containing 1.5 liters) and a ledger as evidence.
The shop’s caretaker, Ms. Kanyarat (20), was detained and charged under Thailand’s Food Act of 1979 for selling bottled kratom without a license. She was transferred to Banglamung Police Station for further legal action.
Kratom Regulations in Thailand
Though Thailand decriminalized kratom in 2022, selling it requires strict licensing and cannot be provided to minors. This case underscores ongoing enforcement efforts to prevent the illegal distribution of regulated substances.
