BANGKOK, Thailand – Phuket Province has stepped up enforcement measures to curb crime and dismantle grey-area businesses, as authorities work to boost public safety and confidence in the island as a secure tourism destination. The operations are being closely directed and monitored by Governor Nirat Phongsitthavorn, with provincial police and relevant agencies acting in coordination.
The efforts target activities that threaten public order and the local economy, with priority given to foreign-led criminal networks, nominee business arrangements, and organized illegal operations. Law enforcement units have been instructed to carry out proactive inspections and sustained operations to prevent the reemergence of unlawful practices.
Recent actions have resulted in the arrest of foreign nationals linked to call center scam rings and the disruption of mule-account networks used to withdraw and transfer illicit funds. Authorities have also moved against nominee businesses, including motorcycle rental operations that concealed foreign control through Thai stand-ins and manipulated shareholding structures to evade legal requirements.
Officials said the crackdown reaffirms Phuket’s determination to uphold the rule of law, eliminate illegal economic activity, and safeguard the province’s reputation as a safe, reliable, and high-quality international tourism destination. Continued cooperation across all sectors will remain crucial to maintaining long-term security and public trust. (NNT)
