Thailand’s national police chief has announced a nationwide crackdown on foreign nominee networks accused of illegally controlling businesses and property through Thai proxies. The operation will focus on tracing financial transactions and dismantling networks linked to unlawful foreign ownership schemes across the country.
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Speaking at Government House on 21 May, Pol. Gen. Kitrat Phanphet, Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, said authorities had been compiling an in-depth intelligence database since January 2026. He said updates had been regularly reported to the prime minister, while Pol. Gen. Samran Nuanma, Deputy Commissioner-General, had been appointed to lead a dedicated task force targeting foreigners involved in illegal business activities in all sectors.
Kitrat stated that authorities could not tolerate foreigners entering Thailand unlawfully, working illegally, or exploiting legal loopholes to gain control of businesses and land ownership. He warned that failure to act would allow the problem to expand and cause serious long-term damage.
The police chief said senior officers had been instructed to begin immediate enforcement operations using existing intelligence data. He pointed to a previous crackdown on nominee networks in Koh Phangan district, Surat Thani province, as an example of the new approach.
Investigators have already issued arrest warrants for three suspects linked to earlier operations. Two suspects have been arrested, while one remains at large. Police also seized key evidence, including computer data, business documents and financial records.
According to Kitrat, investigators uncovered irregularities in company registration documents during the inquiry. Authorities are now analysing the evidence to trace financial routes and expand the investigation into wider criminal networks believed to be operating across Thailand.
The Royal Thai Police are preparing a major coordinated operation in multiple locations nationwide in the near future. However, Kitrat said details of target areas would remain confidential to protect the effectiveness of the investigation.
The crackdown follows a government directive ordering decisive action against nominee business structures. Kitrat said the issue was included as a key agenda item during a government workshop meeting held on the same day.
The Standard reported that police said the long-term aim is to prevent illegal business practices from becoming entrenched in the economy. Kitrat added that although dismantling the networks completely could take time, strict law enforcement beginning now would deter future violations and strengthen confidence in the legal system.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now TheStandard 22 May 2026
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