Phuket —
On Wednesday (May 20th) the Department of Provincial Administration has ordered the urgent transfer of five senior officials in Phuket following mounting complaints from entertainment business operators in Patong, who accused local authorities of extortion and obstructing licensing procedures.
Naruetcha Khosasivilai, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, issued Order No. 1512/2569 directing the officials to temporary assignments in Bangkok from May 25 to June 24, 2026. The move is intended to prevent interference with evidence and ensure impartial investigations, in line with Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s policy to curb local influence networks.
The officials reassigned include:
- Rungreung Thimabut, Phuket Provincial Clerk, to the College of Administration, tasked with training and evaluation duties.
- Siwatch Rawangkul, District Chief of Mueang Phuket, to the Bureau of Local Administration, overseeing governance of village and subdistrict leaders.
- Wilailak Rueangphon, District Chief of Thalang, to the Academic and Planning Division, responsible for policy and performance evaluation.
- Akkarapol Sutthirak Jitsupap, District Chief of Kathu, to the Communications Division, supporting inter-provincial and local communication.
- Danai Suksakul, Phuket Provincial Defense Officer, to the Secretariat Office, assisting with public relations and departmental activities.
The decision follows a public demonstration by Patong nightlife operators and employees along Bangla Road, Kathu District, who voiced opposition to alleged demands for bribes and unfair treatment by officials. Protesters called for transparent licensing processes and equal enforcement of regulations to protect business interests and restore confidence in the government.
