Thailand's Commerce Ministry is investigating seven companies in Nakhon Phanom whose registered addresses were allegedly used without the knowledge or permission of the householders. Officials found that all seven listed locations were private homes, with no apparent business activity. The residents told inspectors they did not know the foreign directors or shareholders named in the registrations and had already reported the matter to police. Addresses used without owners' consent The inspection was carried out by the Nakhon Phanom Provincial Commerce Office, district chiefs and local administrative staff in Na Kae and Wang Yang districts after authorities received tip-offs. According to Department of Business Development director-general Phunphong Naiyanapakorn, residents said they had neither authorised the use of their addresses nor knew the Thai applicants and witnesses involved in the company registrations. The registrar has placed a warning on the company certificates for all seven firms, stating that the legal entity does not have its principal office at its registered address. The notice is intended to alert members of the public and anyone considering transactions with the companies. Immigration records checked The provincial office also asked Nakhon Phanom Immigration to check the entry and exit records of 14 foreign directors and shareholders connected with the seven companies. Authorities said there was no record of any of the 14 entering or leaving Thailand during the period when the companies were registered. Letters have now been sent to the foreign directors and shareholders, the Thai signature certifiers - including registration applicants and accountants - and witnesses named in the registration applications. They have 15 days to explain the circumstances. If the evidence confirms that false information was given to the registrar, the registrar who accepted the applications will issue administrative orders cancelling the registration of all seven companies. Complaints will also be lodged with investigating officers against those involved. How homeowners can check an address The alleged offences include making false statements to an official, where no company formation meeting actually took place, signatures were not made in Thailand, and official documents were forged. The Commerce Ministry cited Sections 137, 267 and 268 of the Criminal Code, which carry fines. The department has also prepared public guidance on how people can check whether their home address has been used as a registered office. Provincial governors will ask district chiefs to pass the information to village and community leaders. People can check an address through the Department of Business Development website at www.dbd.go.th. Select "Hot Service", then "Check the principal office location of a legal entity". Anyone finding their address has been misused should report it to police and submit a complaint to the department, or email checkaddr(at)dbd.go.th. Supporting documents can include a house registration or land title deed, ID card, rental agreement and cancellation letter where applicable, a map, contact details and other relevant evidence. Pictures courtesy of Manager Online Join the discussion? 4 September 2026
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