Huge hemp seed shipment seized

Source: bangkokpost.com

The Customs Department and the Narcotics Suppression Bureau (NSB) have seized 16.5 tonnes of hemp seeds valued at 6.6 million baht.

Customs Department and Nacrotics Suppression Bureau seize 16.5 tonnes of illegal hemp seeds. (Photo by Thanaka Khoonton)

The seeds originated in China.

Packed in 660 bags, the seeds which known in Thai as kanchong, classified as narcotics, were falsely declared as jute plant seeds.

The seeds were sold for more than 500,000 baht in China, but are worth 6.6 million baht in Thailand.

The company named as the importer of the illicit seeds was Pekd Trader Co. 

The seeds were confiscated at Bangkok Port, authorities said.

Yana Yimkarun, deputy director-general of the Customs Department, said hemp seeds are classified as Type 5 narcotics and are prohibited from being imported or exported. 

It is also prohibited for someone to be in possession of them without permission from the Public Health Ministry. NSB deputy chief Suphakij Srichannont said the seeds could be processed to extract oil that, when ingested, produces the same effects as marijuana.