Two Ugandan women were arrested on Koh Pha Ngan, Surat Thani, on March 1, following an Israeli tourist's complaint alleging theft associated with prostitution services. The tourist reported missing property after engaging with a Ugandan woman offering such services. Authorities responded by executing an undercover operation to address the complaint.
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Investigators coordinated through WhatsApp to stage a meeting at a rental property. Tourist Police Sub-division 5, along with local officials, orchestrated the operation. Following a pre-arranged signal, officers engaged with the suspects and a male tourist at the location.
The suspects, identified as 32-year-old Janet and 29-year-old Mariam from Uganda, were detained after evidence collection. Both women confessed to operating illegal sex services on the island for over two months, posing as tourists. They serviced three to four clients daily, accumulating over 180 clients, and reportedly earned around 500,000 baht monthly.
The money was sent back to Uganda to support their family. The women face charges of gathering to engage in prostitution, and advertising or soliciting these services.
Expert analysis suggests this incident could lead to increased scrutiny of tourism practices in the region. Law enforcement is likely to intensify operations against illegal activities on the island, potentially affecting local tourism dynamics.
Further investigations are expected, focusing on other individuals involved or benefiting from similar activities. Authorities aim to curb illegal practices while maintaining the island's reputation as a tourist destination, reported The Thaiger.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 02 Mar 2026
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