A Ghanaian man was found staying at Wat Chalong in Phuket after local residents alerted police to a foreign man sleeping inside the temple grounds. Officers from Chalong Police Station later took the man into custody, recorded his details and transferred the case to the relevant authorities for further action.
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The man admitted he had travelled to Phuket hoping to find work after struggling financially and being unable to secure employment in his home country. He said he only had enough money to buy a one-way plane ticket and intended to “take his chances” after arriving in Thailand.
According to the man, advice shared within online groups encouraged foreigners facing financial problems to go to temples in Thailand, where they could receive free food, accommodation and a place to sleep. He also claimed there were guides teaching people how to survive while living in Thailand under such conditions.
Residents near Wat Chalong became suspicious after noticing the man regularly sleeping within the temple area for several days. Police found him carrying a bag and discovered discarded banana peels near the area where he had been resting, indicating he had been staying there for at least two to three days.
Authorities have not released further details regarding his immigration status or possible legal action. The case has been handed over to the relevant agencies for consideration and further proceedings.
The incident has drawn attention to the growing number of foreign visitors in Thailand attempting to extend their stay while facing financial hardship. Temples have traditionally served as places of refuge, although cases involving foreign nationals staying long term can raise concerns among local residents and authorities.
Officials are expected to continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the man’s arrival and stay in Phuket. No additional information has been released about whether he will face deportation or receive assistance from immigration or social welfare agencies.
Pictures courtesy of Phuket Times
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Phuket Times 23 May 2026