Rayong: The Sutsai team has intensified its investigation to dismantle the red dust laundering network, conducting inspections at 11 steel factories employing the IF smelting process in Rayong Province. The operation has identified three companies that have fully engaged in the illegal activities of receiving, producing, and selling hazardous materials.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ekkanat Promphan, Minister of Industry, disclosed that the Sudsoi team’s expanded investigation has uncovered considerable illegal activity in the IF furnace process at the steel factories. It was revealed that these companies participated in a well-organized scheme, starting with the acquisition of hazardous industrial waste from IF steel factories, which was then remelted into zinc bars and sold both domestically and internationally.

Furthermore, the investigation highlighted the involvement of key figures in the red dust laundering industry who operated through interconnected companies, intentionally maintaining an opaque operation. This breakthrough is seen as a significant step towards ending the red dust laundering activities by cutting off procurement sources and establishing a regulated export market. The authorities hope this will prompt business operators to adhere strictly to legal standards.