Men Arrested For Selling Over 45,000 Fake COVID-19 Test Kits

Fake test kits found in Bangkok

Images adapted from: Thansettakij

It’s not just COVID-19 itself that we should be cautious of, but also of those who take advantage of innocent people during this harsh period of time.

On 8th April 2020, Police Lieutenant General Permpun Chitchob, the Assistant Commissioner–General reported a case of fake COVID-19 test kits, masks, and thermometers being sold. The case was handled along with officials from the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) and officials from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Image credit: Thansettakij

The men were later identified as Chen Lei and Wein Pinpin, 2 Chinese nationals who were arrested inside their residence in Bangkok for smuggling fake COVID-19 test kits into Thailand.

The captured evidence includes over 45,000 fake COVID-19 test kits, 1,200 infrared thermometers, and 350,000 face masks. These items were sold without permission at higher prices in Bangkok and nearby districts, and they were valued at over ฿33m.

Kits would always test ‘negative’

Image credit: Thansettakij

The worst part is that anyone getting checked for COVID-19 with these test kits would receive a negative result. Realising that they “don’t” have the virus, these people could then unknowingly spread the virus to others.

Image credit: Thansettakij

The Food and Drug Administration is now working on finding out where these fake items were made and who was involved in bringing them into Thailand.

Even if you’ve been tested negative for the virus, it’s best to stay indoors and monitor yourself for now – no matter what your test results say. This is to ensure everyone’s safety.

If you want to get checked but aren’t sure where to go, here are a list of reputable hospitals that are offering tests: