Phuket –
A 34‑year‑old Egyptian man was arrested for illegally operating as a barber in Patong, in violation of Thai labor laws that reserve certain professions exclusively for Thai nationals.
The Phuket Immigration told the Phuket Express that the arrest took place on Monday (January 12th) on Phang Muang Sai Kor Road. Authorities found the suspect cutting a foreign customer’s hair inside a shop he had reportedly run for more than two years. Officials said the man has lived in Phuket for roughly a decade.
Under Thai law, being a barber is classified as a “reserved occupation” that foreigners are prohibited from practicing. The suspect admitted to the offense and was charged with “working beyond the rights permitted to foreigners” under the Royal Decree on the Management of Foreign Workers. He was transferred to Patong Police Station for further legal proceedings.
Phuket Immigration Police Chief stressed that the operation is part of a broader crackdown on foreigners working illegally, including those encroaching on Thai‑only professions, transnational crime groups, call‑center scams, and nominee businesses. The campaign, he said, is designed at protecting local livelihoods and reinforcing safety and confidence for residents and tourists alike.
