Authorities launched a multi-agency operation in Pai, Mae Hong Son province, targeting suspected foreign nominee business networks accused of concealing ownership structures and depriving local residents of business opportunities. The operation resulted in the arrest of three foreign nationals and searches at five locations linked to suspected illegal business activities. Get today's headlines by email Operation Protect Pai, “Crush Nominees” was carried out under policies aimed at tackling foreign business violations, nominee arrangements, illegal employment and offences affecting Thailand’s economic security. The action followed complaints from local residents alleging that foreign investors were operating businesses in the area through Thai nominees and competing unfairly with local entrepreneurs. At 09.30 hrs on 5 June, senior officials gathered outside Pai Police Station to launch the operation. Those attending included Police Lieutenant General Kritthaphon Yeesakhon, Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 5, Police Major General Worapong Khamlue, Deputy Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 5, and Niwat Ngamthara, Deputy Governor of Mae Hong Son province. Officers from immigration, tourist police, district administration, employment, commerce, land and security agencies also took part. Investigators inspected five business premises and reviewed work permits, company registrations and ownership records. Authorities said intelligence gathering indicated that some companies may have been established with Thai shareholders acting on behalf of foreign investors, allowing foreign nationals to control businesses while concealing their involvement. Among those arrested was Israeli national Mr. Goren, who was questioned the day before and was subject to a warrant issued by the Pai branch of the Mae Hong Son Provincial Court. He faces allegations of providing false information to officials and offences under the Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542 (1999) relating to the use of nominee arrangements in the operation of a business. US national identified only as Mr. Frank was arrested on charges of working without a work permit and failing to report the accommodation of foreign nationals within the legally required timeframe. Spanish national Ms. Natalia was arrested on a charge of working without a work permit. Police Lieutenant General Kritthaphon said investigators had identified evidence suggesting that Galco Co., Ltd. operated through a nominee structure involving Thai and foreign shareholders. Authorities named Jinda Chitrat and Nattanon Chitrat as Thai shareholders under investigation and said evidence had been gathered to obtain an arrest warrant for Goren and bring possible charges against Jinda and Nattanon. Investigators are also examining Pai Kiang Fah Co., Ltd., which is alleged to have a similar ownership structure. Authorities claim foreign nationals associated with the company were involved without valid work permits and that the company may have been established to obtain Non-Immigrant B visas, provide false information to officials and facilitate land ownership arrangements designed to circumvent Thai law. Daily News reported that officials said evidence collected during the searches will be used to expand the investigation into connected individuals and businesses. Authorities from Mae Hong Son Provincial Police and partner agencies will continue examining all aspects of the suspected network and pursue legal action against those found to have violated the law. Pictures courtesy of Daily News Related story Israeli-businessman-arrested-over-Pai-studio-operation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 6 June 2026
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