Bangkok: Warning has been issued regarding the misuse of “Half-Half Plus” privileges, cautioning that exchanging these privileges for cash could lead to three years in prison and a 60,000 baht fine. Today, Pol. Lt. Gen. Siriwat Deepo, deputy spokesman for the Royal Thai Police, announced that Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanpetch, the national police chief, is alerting the public about potential crimes related to the misuse of the “Half-Half Plus” program. From October 29, 2025, to December 31, 2025, the government, led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, has rolled out this program to assist in alleviating the cost of living during the economic slowdown. The program allocates a budget for essential consumer goods.
According to Thai News Agency, during previous projects between 2020 and 2021, individuals and merchants were found exchanging their rights for cash or colluding to exercise rights without purchasing goods, which is considered “false representation” and “fraud” under Section 341 of the Criminal Code. This crime is punishable by up to three years of imprisonment, a fine of up to 60,000 baht, or both. Additionally, offenders might be suspended from other government projects and required to make restitution to the government.
The Royal Thai Police are urging the public not to resell or misuse the “Half-Half Plus” privileges, as this is a legal violation. Citizens who witness such behavior are encouraged to report it to the 191 hotline or the Royal Thai Police hotline at 1599, available 24 hours a day.