Factory in Saraburi recycling used face masks as new ones raided
SARABURI — Police and public health officials raided on March 2 a recycling factory in Saraburi province that sold used face masks as new ones.
Wihandaeng district chief officer, Somsak Kaewsena, said that he and police officers from Wihandaeng Police Station raided a recycling factory in Nongsuong subdistrict following a tip-off that the facility illegally recycled used masks.
Many used masks were found in a washing machine, thousands more were laid out in the courtyard and many more recycled masks were waiting to be packed, apparently for resale, stated Somsak.
The authorities found six workers sorting out used face masks and ironing them before folding them in boxes to look like new, unused ones. One of the workers reportedly told the police that they received used face masks from a dealer and therefore did not know the real origin.
“Workers said they got paid at Bt1 per piece, while they recycled around 300-400 masks per day per person,” said Somsak.
Officials seized all face masks and sent some samples to the Ministry of Commerce to investigate the origin. “I have also contacted Wihandaeng Public Health Office to press charges at the police station as a plaintiff against the factory, as its operation could jeopardise the health of people who buy the used face masks as well as those in the community near the factory,” added Somsak.
Sources: The Nation | Thai PBS World
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