his agency, which started work six months ago, has cracked down on illegal sales of many products. these include the skin whitening drug glutathione and controversial herbal drugs and eye drops sold by Sorawan Sirisuntarin, also known as Pa
Cheng.
These are only initial steps, Pol Maj Gen Jaturong said . Next month, he wants to embark on a food hygiene drive. working with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), his agency will arrest vendors of contaminated meat and vegetables.
"we've received many complaints about the safety and cleanliness of food" he said. "this year I want work on improving the quality of food sold."
he will take action under the Consumer Protection Act and food Act againt vendors who sell substandard food.
to achieve his goal, he has formed a team of police called "fresh-market investigators" they will sample and test fruit and vegetables on sale in markets. if officers suspect food is contaminated, they will try to trace its origins.
contrary to popular belief, Pol Maj Jaturong says wrongdoers face much heavier penalties than mere token fines.
in serious cases they could be sentenced to two years in jail and fined up to 20,000 baht.