Koh Phangan, Surat Thani –
Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul arrived on Koh Phangan today to tackle foreigners illegally running businesses, where he was warmly welcomed by Surat Thani Governor Jumphot Wannachatsiri, representing provincial officials, private sector leaders, and local residents.
The visit focused on briefing the Prime Minister about pressing issues surrounding foreign business operations in the area. Koh Phangan, a world-renowned tourist destination, generates significant revenue for Thailand but faces mounting challenges, including nominee land ownership, illegal business activities, encroachment on public land, and the influence of foreign groups.
Authorities explained concerns about foreign nationals, particularly groups from Israel, Russia, and a few other countries, engaging in activities ranging from unauthorized business operations and illegal employment to drug-related offenses and unlicensed establishments. These issues have raised alarms over economic stability and community well-being in Koh Phangan and neighboring Koh Samui.
To address the situation, Surat Thani Province established a special task force in October 2025, later restructured in April 2026 to integrate security agencies. On May 10th, 2026, the task force adopted three key measures:
- Land and Business Ownership Checks – Investigating nominee arrangements and ensuring compliance with building control laws.
- Security and Public Order – Monitoring foreign residents for overstays, illegal work, and activities harmful to public peace and morality.
- Immigration Oversight – Strengthening entry and exit controls, visa extensions, and foreign resident registration.
Law enforcement has already pursued 353 cases, including violations of the Foreign Workers Act (133), narcotics offenses (109), nominee cases (20), immigration violations (29), hotel law breaches (7), and other crimes such as gambling, firearms, and counterfeit currency (55).
Nominee cases involved 21 companies linked to shareholders from Israel, France, Russia, the United States, Italy, Ukraine, and other nations. Meanwhile, 44 cases involving Israeli nationals were prosecuted, covering drug offenses, illegal work, nominee arrangements, immigration violations, and unlicensed childcare centers. Authorities revoked visas for 11 individuals deemed to pose risks.
Governor Jumphot stated that Surat Thani is committed to working closely with the government, police, immigration, and local agencies to enforce the law, protect Thai livelihoods, and encourage transparent foreign investment. The province has also launched anti-fake news operations to ensure accurate public information.
Prime Minister Anutin’s visit was seen as a strong signal of the government’s determination to safeguard Koh Phangan’s future as a sustainable global tourism hub. His presence provided encouragement to local communities, reinforcing confidence that the government will act decisively against illegal practices while welcoming legitimate investment.
