Bangkok: Central Investigation Police have apprehended 12 individuals involved in illegal pharmacy practices as part of a crackdown on drug stores throughout Bangkok.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Col. Pattanasak Bubphasuwan, Acting Commander of the Consumer Protection Police Division, along with Pol. Col. Wiraphong Klaythong and representatives from the Food and Drug Administration, announced the results of a significant raid on drug stores in the Bangkok area. The operation led to the arrest of 12 suspects who were not licensed pharmacists and the confiscation of 26 related items.
The crackdown followed numerous complaints from the public about high-risk drug stores employing unqualified salespeople. By law, drug stores must have pharmacists available to provide critical information on drug properties, dosages, and usage to ensure effective and safe treatment. Incorrect drug consumption poses serious health risks, especially to individuals with allergies or specific health conditions.
From January 1 to January 24, 2025, police officers from the Consumer Protection Police Division 4 inspected 12 drug stores in Bangkok. Though the stores were properly licensed, they lacked on-duty pharmacists. The suspects, who had varying educational backgrounds but no pharmacy knowledge, were charged with practicing pharmacy without registration or a license. Some also faced charges for selling dangerous drugs without a pharmacist present. All suspects confessed, revealing they were employed as salespeople with monthly salaries ranging from 12,000 to 30,000 baht.
Pol. Col. Pattanasak emphasized the importance of pharmacist oversight in drug stores, particularly for dangerous and specially controlled drugs, which require careful administration according to a doctor's prescription. The CPPD encourages the public to report any violations to their hotline or Consumer Warning page.
Pol. Col. Wiraphong noted that the arrests were made possible through tips from Bangkok residents about illegal pharmaceutical activities. Dr. Witit Srisadeechaikul advised consumers to verify the identity of pharmacists by checking their name tags and photographs in stores.
Violations of the Pharmacy Profession Act B.E. 2537 can result in up to 3 years of imprisonment or a fine of up to 30,000 baht. Under the Drug Act of 1967, selling dangerous drugs without a pharmacist present incurs fines between 1,000 and 5,000 baht. Pharmacists who neglect their duties may also face similar penalties.