Bangkok: The Trat Maritime Security Command, in collaboration with the Royal Thai Navy, Marine Police, and Customs Department, has initiated "Operation Koh Chang Channel 69" to combat the illegal export of sugar into Cambodia.
According to Thai News Agency, the operation commenced last night, as the Trat Provincial Maritime Security Command, along with the Royal Thai Navy, Customs, and Marine Police, undertook "Operation Koh Chang 69 Joint Inspection." This initiative focused on conducting rigorous inspections of agricultural product exports, particularly sugar, to thwart smuggling activities and disrupt illegal trade routes from origin to destination.
Throughout the operation, the navy provided security and area control, customs officials scrutinized customs declarations and taxes, and marine police verified vessel and crew documentation. A dedicated data recording team documented the entire process, capturing photographs and GPS coordinates to ensure transparency and accountability. The primary target of the operation was the tugboat "S. Supharat 2," which was towing two cargo ships in the eastern sea. The operation team identified themselves upon arrival, instructed the vessel to halt for inspection, and deployed officers to secure critical areas. A significant quantity of sugar intended for Cambodia was discovered on the vessel, which was subsequently escorted back to shore for further inspection.
This operation underscores the "strength, readiness, and seriousness of all security agencies in enforcing maritime law, closing smuggling routes, and exercising strict control over illegal exports, thereby enhancing public confidence."