SAMUT SAKHON, Thailand – Cheap cosmetics sold online may seem like a bargain, but counterfeit products can carry risks for consumers. Immigration police raided two warehouses in Samut Sakhon on October 9, seizing large quantities of suspected counterfeit cosmetics and other goods bearing fake or imitated trademarks. Six foreign nationals were found during searches of the two warehouses on Bang Pla Road in Na Di subdistrict, Mueang district. They comprised one Chinese national, three Myanmar nationals and two people without registered nationality status.
The raids were conducted by Immigration Bureau investigators and Samut Sakhon immigration officers under search warrants issued by Samut Sakhon Provincial Court. Officers temporarily sealed both warehouses and seized samples of the products for examination. Authorities also filed complaints against the product owners over the alleged sale of counterfeit cosmetics and possession of goods bearing counterfeit or imitated trademarks belonging to other companies.
The six foreign nationals were charged with working without work permits and changing employers without notifying authorities within the required 15-day period. Preliminary investigations indicate that the group allegedly prepared and dispatched orders placed through major online marketplaces, including Shopee, Lazada and TikTok. Promotions such as free delivery and bonus products were reportedly used to attract shoppers and increase sales.
Counterfeit cosmetics can pose potential health risks when their ingredients, manufacturing conditions and safety have not been properly verified. Consumers should be cautious of unusually low prices and check product packaging, seller credibility and other signs of authenticity before buying beauty products online. Police are examining the seized goods and continuing their investigation to identify other people who may be involved.
