Thai immigration police have arrested a 29-year-old Nigerian man for overstaying his visa in Thailand for nearly two years while living with his Thai girlfriend in Nonthaburi province.
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The suspect was detained on 14 May 2026 at a condominium on Bangkok-Nonthaburi Road after authorities received a tip-off through the Immigration Bureau hotline. Investigators from Nonthaburi Immigration Police searched the building and located the man living on the 17th floor.
Police said the man entered Thailand on 13 April 2023 on a tourist visa during the Songkran holiday festival. Authorities said he repeatedly extended his stay in the country before his latest visa extension expired on 6 June 2024.
According to investigators, the suspect then remained in Thailand illegally for 708 days. Immigration officers said the man admitted staying in the country after his permission to remain had expired.
During questioning, the suspect reportedly told officers he had originally travelled to Thailand to attend Songkran celebrations in Bangkok. He later entered into a relationship with a Thai woman and decided to remain in the country.
Police said the man attempted to obtain a student visa through an educational institution in Nakhon Ratchasima province, but the application was rejected. Authorities said he subsequently continued extending his tourist visa before eventually overstaying. Investigators also stated that the suspect told officers he was unemployed and financially supported by his girlfriend while living in Thailand.
Immigration officers charged the man with remaining in Thailand after the expiry of his permitted stay under Thailand’s Immigration Act. Following his arrest, he was transferred to Muang Nonthaburi Police Station for further legal proceedings.
The case forms part of continued immigration enforcement operations targeting visa overstays and illegal residency in Thailand. Authorities have increasingly encouraged members of the public to report suspected immigration violations through official hotlines.
Khaosod reported that officials have not released further details regarding possible deportation proceedings or additional penalties. The suspect remains in police custody while legal action continues.
Picture courtesy of Khaosod
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 16 May 2026
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