Luxembourger Arrested for Illegally Guiding Tourists on Rattanakosin Island

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BANGKOK - The Thai Tourist Police, in cooperation with officials from the Department of Tourism, arrested Mr. Nico Alexis David Gamel Frederich, a 44-year-old Luxembourg national, for illegally operating as a tour guide.

 

Frederich was apprehended on Trok Wat Tri Thot Thep Road in Bangkok’s Phra Nakhon District while leading a group of foreign tourists on scooter tours around the historic Rattanakosin Island.

 

The investigation began when Yongyot Samransuk, head of the Tour Business and Guide Registration Office, informed authorities about a foreign national allegedly guiding tourists without proper authorization.

 

Acting on this tip, the Tourist Police conducted surveillance and observed Frederich leading a group of international visitors on scooters, showcasing various sites around the island without a licensed guide.

Upon his arrest, Frederich admitted to the charges, stating he did not possess a license to operate as a tour guide in Thailand. Authorities discovered that Frederich had been actively promoting his services as a guide to tourists, despite lacking the required work permit and guide license under Thai law.

 

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath

 

He was promptly charged with “acting as a tour guide without a license” and “working as a foreigner without a valid work permit.”

Frederich was transferred to Chana Songkhram Police Station, where he awaits further legal proceedings.

 

Officials have reminded tourists and operators alike that unlicensed guiding is a violation of Thai law, and violators will face penalties. The authorities have been increasing their efforts to crack down on illegal tour operators, especially foreign nationals who offer services without the proper documentation, reported Siam Rath.

 

TOP Picture courtesy: Siam Rath

 

-- 2024-10-08

 

 

[ikke1959]

I am wondering when Thailand will end this silly law that a foreigner can't  do a job that Thais can do.. It would be much easier to get work permits, but the outdated protective law makes applying for work permits very difficult, Even volunteer work with no payments need work permits.. so please review the law to the 21st century.. Now wonder the economy stays behind.. Thailand is not an welcoming country