Four Chinese Nationals Arrested in Phuket for Illegal Work at Construction Site

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News

Thalang police have arrested four Chinese nationals caught working illegally at a construction site in Thepkrasattri, Phuket, following a dramatic raid. Acting on a tip-off received earlier, officers stormed a warehouse in Village 9 on March 5, discovering construction sounds emanating from within.

Inside, the authorities found four Chinese men engaged in work without the necessary permits: Minggui Yang, 33, Yongdong Deng, 45, Zuo Tang, 44, and Xiaohui Xiang, 37, who also went by Xiaohui Zhang. The men were reportedly living on-site while working for an interior design business under construction.

Police swiftly detained the suspects, transferring them to Thalang Police Station for questioning. Tang faced charges for illegally working as a construction supervisor, with the other three charged as illegal construction labourers. Additionally, all four faced charges for illegal entry and overstaying in Thailand.

Despite the serious legal implications, the suspects denied the allegations and withheld information about their employer. Authorities are now focusing on identifying those responsible for hiring them. The property’s lessee, Peerakarn Wechakul, 51, has been summoned for questioning, as police reports indicate he leased the warehouse for an interior design venture.

The investigation is set to expand, aiming to uncover potential violations by the employer. Officials emphasize their dedication to eradicating illegal foreign labour and ensuring businesses comply with immigration and labour laws. This case underscores the persistent issue of undocumented workers in Thailand, with police determined to hold employers accountable for exploiting illegal labour, reported The Thaiger.