Phuket—
Law enforcement in Phuket has launched a sweeping crackdown on nominee businesses and illegal land occupation, reinforcing the government’s national security agenda and targeting organized crime in local communities including International Schools.
The operation, directed by Pol. Maj. Gen. Sinlert Sukhum, Commander of Phuket Provincial Police, and Pol. Col. Surasak Jaidee, Superintendent of Chalong Police Station, brought together a coalition of police, immigration officers, district officials, and municipal authorities from Rawai and Chalong.
Key Enforcement Actions
- International Schools Under Scrutiny: Search warrants authorized by the Phuket Provincial Court were executed at three international schools in Rawai and Chalong. Authorities examined ownership documents, registration records, and management structures to determine whether foreign investors were using Thai nominees to unlawfully control the institutions.
- Tourism Business Oversight: ATV rental operators were inspected to ensure compliance with safety standards and to prevent illegal foreign-backed ventures from infiltrating Phuket’s tourism sector.
- Community Crime Sweep: In the Thai Mai community, police arrested three suspects and seized 206 methamphetamine pills. Drug tests revealed four individuals with positive results, who were then referred for rehabilitation.
Around 3:30 p.m., Pol. Lt. Col. Chakrapong Phetcharat, Deputy Superintendent of Chalong Police, and Pol. Lt. Col. Siripong Suriyan, Inspector, joined forces with tourist police and municipal officials to inspect elephant camps and adventure tourism businesses in Soi Yodsane. Operators were reminded to comply with Thai business registration laws and uphold strict safety standards to protect visitors and preserve Phuket’s tourism image.
Pol. Col. Surasak Jaidee stated that the integrated operation reflects a zero-tolerance policy toward nominee businesses and unlawful foreign investment:
“We are committed to exposing and dismantling illegal enterprises that exploit loopholes. Chalong Police will continue to expand investigations with multi-agency cooperation to restore transparency and public confidence.”
Authorities pledged to sustain rigorous enforcement, working with local and national agencies to safeguard Phuket’s economy, strengthen community security, and ensure a safe environment for residents and tourists alike.
