Vaping / e-cigarette extortion

How this scam works

E-cigarettes, vapes, and all vaping devices are illegal in Thailand (Import/Export Act and Consumer Protection Act). Possession can carry fines of up to 30,000 THB or up to 10 years in prison. While enforcement has historically been lax, in 2025-2026 some police officers in tourist areas have begun specifically targeting tourists seen vaping, demanding on-the-spot fines of 20,000-50,000 THB — far above the legal fine — to 'resolve it quietly.' Some officers will threaten arrest, confiscation, and a court appearance to pressure immediate cash payment. While vaping is genuinely illegal, the demanded amounts and aggressive approach qualify as extortion.