Crackdown on Illegal Work at Phuket’s Downtown Market Leads to One Arrest, Many Evade Sweep

Phuket –

Authorities launched a pre-dawn raid on Phuket’s bustling Downtown Market after receiving complaints that foreign nationals were illegally operating stalls in violation of Thai labor laws.

The operation, dubbed “Dawn at Downtown”, began in the early morning over this past weekend. The raid was carried out jointly by the Phuket Provincial Employment Office and police investigators, with activist leader Tae Achiwa of the ‘Thai Mai Thon’ group and local figure “Hia Tee Krata Ron” observing and coordinating with officials.

During the sweep, officers detained one Myanmar woman suspected of selling goods without a valid work permit. Witnesses reported she appeared distressed and tearful as she was taken for document verification and legal processing.

Several stalls identified in complaints were found shuttered during the raid, raising suspicions that vendors may have been tipped off beforehand. Officials noted that while only one arrest was made, intelligence gathering continues and further inspections are planned.

Tae Achiwa said that the joint operation shows a commitment to enforcing laws that reserve certain occupations for Thai nationals. “Even if some vendors closed shop today, this will not hinder investigations. We are expanding inquiries and will ensure fairness for lawful Thai businesses,” he said.

Authorities confirmed that follow-up checks will focus on work permits, employment status, and business licenses. Both foreign workers and Thai operators found violating regulations will face prosecution. Officials pledged ongoing monitoring of high-risk areas to safeguard Thai labor rights and maintain fair competition in local markets.