A 37-year-old Ghanaian national has been detained for deportation after Phuket immigration authorities revoked his permission to remain in Thailand following repeated public complaints about his behaviour. Officials said the action forms part of a wider effort to protect public order and maintain Phuket’s reputation as a tourist destination.
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The Phuket Immigration Office, working with Chalong Police Station, confirmed that the man’s visa was revoked after residents reported repeated incidents involving intoxication, harassment and sleeping at temples. Authorities identified him only as Mr. Boakye.
According to immigration officials, Mr. Boakye first entered Thailand in 2024 to work as a language teacher in Bangkok. In 2026, he moved to Patong, Phuket, where he continued teaching before losing his job following repeated problems linked to alcohol use.
Officials said the loss of employment left him without a source of income or permanent accommodation. He subsequently sought shelter at a local church before later staying at Wat Chalong.
Authorities stated that while staying at the temple, Mr. Boakye’s conduct included intoxication, intimidating local residents and causing disturbances involving tourists. Investigators concluded that his behaviour posed a threat to public safety.
Following a review of the case, Phuket Immigration applied to revoke his permission to remain in Thailand under Section 54 of the Immigration Act (1979). The request was approved, and he has now been taken into custody pending deportation to Ghana.
Immigration officials said the enforcement action reflects a broader policy of taking action against foreign nationals whose behaviour is considered harmful to public order and damaging to Phuket’s tourism image. The operation was carried out in cooperation with Chalong Police Station.
Mr. Boakye remains in immigration custody while arrangements are made for his removal from Thailand. Authorities have not announced any additional charges in connection with the case.
Pictures courtesy of The Phuket Express
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Adapted by ASEAN Now The Phuketexpress 4 July 2026