Section 249 — Tools for counterfeiting currency
English translation
Whoever makes, or has in possession, any instrument or article for counterfeiting or altering currency shall be liable to imprisonment of one to fifteen years and a fine of twenty thousand to three hundred thousand baht.
This English translation is provided for reference only and has not yet been firm-verified — always rely on the Thai original.
Firm annotation
Within the currency offences of Book II, this provision is a preparatory offence: it punishes the making or possession of tools and materials for counterfeiting or altering money, even before any counterfeit currency is actually produced. The elements are (1) making or possessing (2) an instrument or article (3) intended for counterfeiting or altering currency. It sits alongside the completed offences of counterfeiting currency and of putting counterfeit currency into circulation, allowing prosecution at the equipment stage. Intent that the tools serve counterfeiting is central, distinguishing criminal possession from innocent possession of printing or metalworking equipment.
Why this matters in practice
Exposure is serious: up to fifteen years even where no counterfeit note was ever printed, because the law targets the preparatory stage. This is a public offence against the State, so it cannot be settled or withdrawn by any private complainant, and it is commonly charged together with the completed counterfeiting or circulation offences. A realistic defence usually attacks intent, showing the equipment had a legitimate purpose. Anyone facing such an allegation should take online consultation with a Thai lawyer before making any statement.
Frequently asked questions
Is it a crime to possess counterfeiting equipment even if no fake money was made?
Yes. Section 249 punishes making or possessing instruments or materials for counterfeiting or altering currency regardless of whether any counterfeit money was actually produced, with imprisonment of one to fifteen years and a fine.
Can a counterfeiting-tools charge under Section 249 be settled with money?
No. It is an offence against the State, not against a private complainant, so it cannot be compounded or withdrawn; only the public prosecutor and the court control the case.