Thai Authorities Nab 17 Foreigners in Island Immigration Raids

[webfact]

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Authorities have intensified their efforts to clamp down on illegal immigration activities on some of Thailand's renowned tourist hotspots. A recent sweep on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao has led to the arrest of 17 foreigners and one Thai national, accused of breaching immigration laws and operating without necessary permits.

 

Surat Thani's provincial immigration office embarked on this operation after receiving information about foreigners allegedly exploiting tourist visas to engage in unlawful work practices on the islands.

 

Under the leadership of Pol Col Naruewat Phutthawiro, these coordinated raids saw immigration officials join forces with local police and administrative officers.

 

On Koh Samui, separate raids resulted in the detention of a British and a Laotian national. The British citizen was reportedly found to have overstayed their visa, while the Laotian was apprehended for illegal entry into Thailand. These charges highlight the ongoing issues of visa compliance that authorities aim to rectify.

 

Koh Phangan witnessed the arrest of 12 individuals stemming from diverse backgrounds, including five Russians, two Ukrainians, and five Myanmar nationals.

 

Offences ranged from establishing unregistered educational facilities to operating nurseries without official approvals. These enterprises not only contravene local regulations but also undermine legitimate businesses abiding by Thai laws and paying required taxes.

Meanwhile, on Koh Tao, three individuals from Myanmar were found working without proper work permits. Furthermore, a Thai national was accused of illegally running a nursery and employing undocumented migrants, exacerbating concerns regarding lawful employment practices on the islands.

 

The genesis of these raids traces back to directives from national police chief Kittharath Punpetch, who issued orders for a robust response against foreign nationals misusing tourist visas.

 

The drive, aptly dubbed "Operation X-ray," underscores the commitment to safeguard Thailand's economic interests and ensure safety on these beloved travel destinations.

 

Government officials stressed that these measures are part of a broader initiative to regulate the influx of foreign workers and maintain law and order.

 

It serves as a stern reminder that while Thailand remains a welcoming destination for tourists and investors alike, adherence to the country's legal frameworks is non-negotiable.

 

In a nation where the tourism sector forms a crucial economic backbone, maintaining the sanctity of tourist activities is paramount. As this crackdown unfolds, authorities assure that compliance checks will continue to be part of ongoing operations, deterring further misconduct and reinforcing Thailand’s position as a lawful and thriving tourist haven, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2025-01-30

 

 

[Andre0720]

Wow, 17 illegal foreigners.

In the US. about 11 million now, depending on the source of information.

But it made the news here, and the authorities take these numbers seriously.

 

So there must be a wall here somewhere, huge and tall....

 

 

[Tropicalevo]

1 hour ago, webfact said:

A recent sweep on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao has led to the arrest of 17 foreigners and one Thai national

 

Not much of a sweep then.

If they only found 17 individuals, then they are not even scratching the surface of the issue.