Bangkok: Police from the Consumer Protection Police Division, in conjunction with the FDA, raided a wholesale operation selling illegal silicone nose and chin implants to over 20 cosmetic clinics for three years. Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridet, Commander-in-Chief of the Central Investigation Bureau, led officers from the Consumer Protection Police Division and the Food and Drug Administration in a raid on a premises storing and selling medical devices, silicone nose and chin implants, and illegal prescription drugs in Bangkok.

According to Thai News Agency, a building was found illegally selling medical equipment used for cosmetic surgery, including silicone nose and chin implants, totaling over 15,000 pieces, which were not approved by the Food and Drug Administration, and selling unregistered drugs. The sales were made through online media and to various beauty clinics. Mr. A. (pseudonym), 34 years old, identified himself as the manager of the searched location and admitted to illegally selling silicone for approximately 3 years, supplying it to over 20 beauty clinics.

Initially, the above actions were a violation of the Medical Device Act for selling medical devices without a license, and the Drug Act for “selling prescription drugs without a license.”

Pol. Maj. Gen. Pattanasak Bubphasuwan, Commander of the Consumer Protection Police Division, stated that officers seized a large quantity of substandard silicone implants for cosmetic surgery. The use of substandard silicone implants in medical applications can increase the risk of inflammation, infection, and adverse effects on the body, including the face. Manufacturers must be licensed and meet established standards. He advised the public to check the quality of the clinic and the silicone implants before receiving services. Police will pursue legal action against any involved offenders.