SURAT THANI, Thailand – Authorities in Surat Thani province are accelerating legal action and tighter regulatory oversight following reports involving foreign nationals allegedly violating Thai law on the tourist islands of Koh Pha-ngan, Koh Samui, and Koh Tao.
The measures follow concerns over a group of tourists reportedly residing long-term in the province, with some accused of working illegally while on tourist visas and engaging in activities affecting public order and the province’s tourism image.
Provincial agencies are conducting inspections targeting suspected nominee business operations through coordinated work involving security agencies, immigration police, the provincial employment office, and other related departments. Surat Thani Governor Jumbhot Wannachatsiri also reviewed the results of enforcement operations already carried out in the province during a media briefing on May 8.
Officials are also preparing longer-term measures to address the issue and maintain confidence in Surat Thani’s tourism sector. Residents and business operators are urged to report suspected illegal activities through official complaint channels to assist enforcement efforts and help maintain public order. (NNT)
