CHIANG MAI, Thailand – Thailand’s Tourist Police are strengthening cooperation with foreign consulates and international volunteer networks as part of a nationwide effort to combat nominee business operations, transnational crime, and illegal activities involving foreign nationals.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Pongsiam Meekhantong, Deputy Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau, said the initiative follows a recent cooperation meeting held in Chiang Mai on June 12 and builds on similar efforts launched earlier in Pattaya on May 18. The meeting brought together representatives from nine countries — the United States, China, Japan, India, United Kingdom, South Korea, Canada, Germany, and representatives of Israel based in Pai, Mae Hong Son. Foreign volunteer networks from ten countries also participated in discussions aimed at improving information-sharing and coordination against crimes affecting tourists and Thailand’s tourism image.
Officials discussed a range of growing concerns, including the use of Thai nationals as nominees for foreign-owned businesses, scam operations, drug trafficking networks, illegal immigration, visa overstays, and other offenses involving foreign nationals. According to Pol. Maj. Gen. Pongsiam, transnational crime has become increasingly sophisticated and requires close cooperation among law enforcement agencies, embassies, consulates, and foreign communities. “Transnational crime knows no borders,” he said. “No single agency can effectively tackle these emerging threats alone. Close coordination and information sharing are essential to protecting tourists and maintaining confidence in Thailand as a safe destination.” Participants also reviewed tourism statistics and crime trends in Chiang Mai to identify emerging risks and develop prevention strategies tailored to changing patterns of criminal activity. Particular attention was given to scams and fraud networks, illegal business operations using Thai nominees, narcotics trafficking, unlawful employment schemes, immigration violations, and attempts to use Thailand as a transit point for sending individuals to work illegally in neighboring countries.
The meeting also addressed issues that directly affect tourists, including illegal cannabis transportation and use, businesses overcharging visitors, exploitation by unauthorized interpreters, foreigners driving without valid licenses, theft, and behavior that disregards Thai laws and regulations. Tourist Police said they are expanding channels for reporting criminal activity involving foreign nationals and strengthening partnerships with international networks to improve the speed and effectiveness of investigations. Authorities stressed that maintaining tourist safety remains a key priority for both the government and the tourism industry. By expanding international cooperation and taking a more proactive approach to crime prevention, officials hope to enhance Thailand’s reputation as a safe and high-quality destination while supporting long-term tourism growth and economic development. (TNA)
