Thai Immigration Chief Orders Crackdown on Foreign Nationals in Mae Hong Son

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Matichon.

 

The Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanumas Bunyaluck, visited Mae Hong Son on 14 March, to implement stricter measures against foreign nationals causing disturbances. He ordered immediate deportation and blacklisting for those found violating Thai laws or engaging in inappropriate behaviour.

 

At 10:30, Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanumas conducted an inspection at the Mae Hong Son Immigration Office, the focus of his visit, being foreign nationals who may not be adhering to visa regulations or who have become a public nuisance.

 

He directed officers to conduct thorough document checks and take decisive action against any individuals not complying with Thai laws, including revoking their stay and deporting them immediately.

 

He specifically emphasised the need for tighter monitoring in Pai district, a well-known tourist destination popular with both Thais and foreigners. Reports of conflicts between locals and foreign visitors have surfaced frequently in the media, prompting authorities to collaborate with local administrative bodies. Officials are now updating records on individuals and accommodations to ensure accurate monitoring.

 

Certain nationalities, including Israeli and Russian visitors, are under heightened scrutiny due to a significant number of visa extension requests. Authorities are closely watching for any suspicious behaviour that may warrant further investigation.

 

“If any foreigner is found acting with disregard for Thai law or causing trouble for the local community, legal action will be taken. Their residency permits or visas will be revoked, and they will be added to the blacklist, barring them from re-entering the country,” Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanumas stated.

 

Additionally, immigration officers are enforcing strict compliance with Section 38 of the Immigration Act, which requires hotels and property owners to report foreign guests within 24 hours of their arrival. Any accommodation providers failing to comply will face legal consequences.

 

The crackdown is part of a broader directive from the national police chief, Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet, instructing immigration authorities to prevent foreign nationals from creating problems in Thailand. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the Immigration Bureau via their official channels.

 

-- 2025-03-15

 

[ikke1959]

A very welcoming message for tourism in Thailand.... Not clear what is inappropriate behavior??? not wearing a Tshirt and being blacklisted and deported? Smoking on the street? Not wearing helmets on motorcycles?? 

 

Are all Thais in Pai angels and have a good behavior too and are they fined  too for sound pollution or things like that??

 

For me it seems  this is again an action against foreigners, as Thais could do what they want..So the easiest way is avoid the place..Tourism will be dying and the locals don't earn again and things will get back to normal... And than they start to complain again

[Gottfrid]

1 hour ago, ikke1959 said:

A very welcoming message for tourism in Thailand

Yes, it is, as it refers to sorting out the people who can´t behave. All tourists that behave and adhere to Thai rules, laws and respect the culture are welcome.