Thai marine police in Phuket have seized a Chinese-operated charter fishing tour boat carrying tourists in the Andaman Sea after discovering undeclared satellite internet equipment and multiple licensing breaches, officials reported on 23 June 2026.
Get today's headlines by email 
The operation took place after the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) Marine Police in Phuket received intelligence that a tour vessel was conducting fishing trips for Chinese tourists in possible violation of Thai maritime and tourism laws. On 22 June 2026, officers patrolling the area located the vessel at around 18:40 near Laem Dinsor in Wichit, Mueang Phuket district.
The boat was carrying two Chinese tourists on a private charter fishing trip and was operated by a man identified only as Krit. Officers found Starlink satellite internet equipment on board, including a receiver, power supply unit and signal distribution devices. The operator was unable to provide import, ownership or installation documents for the equipment, prompting officers to seize it for further inspection.
Checks also revealed the vessel’s licence and crew qualifications did not comply with legal requirements under Thailand’s Navigation in Thai Waters Act. Authorities additionally found no licensed tour guide accompanying the tourists, in breach of tourism regulations requiring guides to be present on organised trips.
Police have filed charges relating to improper use of a licensed vessel and violations of maritime regulations. The case has been forwarded to the Department of Tourism for further legal action regarding the absence of a guide and possible breaches of tour operator conditions.
Investigators are also examining the business structure behind the operation after suspicions emerged that Thai nominees may have been used to mask foreign ownership, a practice that could breach Thai law. Officers said the probe will extend to financial flows and corporate arrangements linked to the tour operator.
The Daily News reported that authorities confirmed that the seized Starlink equipment will undergo verification to determine its legal status and origin. Further enforcement action may follow depending on the outcome of the investigation.
Pictures courtesy of Daily News
Join the discussion? 
Already a member? 
Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 24 June 2026