Bangkok: "Jirayu" is prepared to receive letters containing information about influential individuals involved in the e-cigarette trade. He has stated that there will be no tolerance for e-cigarettes, emphasizing that the government's crackdown will continue without pause.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Jirayu Huangtrakul, spokesman for the Prime Minister's Office, made these remarks on the program "Voice from the Heart...Thai Khu Fa". He highlighted the government's ongoing efforts to suppress e-cigarettes, urging the public to report any government officials who may be complicit or negligent in the e-cigarette trade. Mr. Jirayu invited citizens to send any information directly to him at Government House.
Mr. Jirayu acknowledged past successes in apprehending offenders related to e-cigarettes, but expressed concern over the involvement of some officials across various provinces. These officials are allegedly claiming clearance from higher authorities, a practice Mr. Jirayu condemned as illegal. He reiterated the Prime Minister's decisive policy to address these issues and warned that any wrongdoing would be met with severe punishment. Additionally, he noted that the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES) and the Cyber Police are actively working to combat the shift to online sales of e-cigarettes.
Mr. Jirayu refuted claims that e-cigarettes are safer than traditional cigarettes and can aid in quitting smoking. He cited official data indicating that e-cigarettes cause approximately 300,000 injuries and deaths annually, with most victims dying before the age of 60 due to the misconception that heated e-cigarettes are less harmful. He emphasized that the government maintains that e-cigarettes are not less harmful than regular cigarettes, but in fact, they pose a greater risk.