Crackdown on Illegal Jet Ski Rentals in Phuket Leads to Five Arrests

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News

In a significant crackdown on illegal jet ski operations in Phuket, authorities have arrested five individuals accused of running unregistered rentals. This operation, led by the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) and the Marine Police Division, is part of ongoing efforts to tackle unregulated tourist services in this popular Thai resort.

The suspects, identified as Kritsada Jaija, Cherdchai Anuphraiwan, Phanomphorn Phrom-ouan, Bancherd Bulan, and Anchalee Tiangnoi, were apprehended at Kamala Beach and a pier in Koh Kaew. They face charges under the Thai Navigation Act, primarily for operating vessels without the necessary licences and documentation.

The charges include violations under Section 9 for operating vessels without licences, with Kritsada, Cherdchai, and Anchalee specifically accused of this offence. Phanomphorn was charged under Section 150 for failing to carry the essential documentation while operating. Bancherd faced charges for using an expired certificate and not maintaining it on board as required by law.

Unregistered jet skis, lacking identification names or registration numbers, posed direct violations of Thai water navigation laws, heightening safety concerns in this busy tourist destination. Following their arrest, the operators were presented with their rights and transferred to Kamala Police Station and Phuket City Police Station for further legal proceedings.

This crackdown aligns with broader efforts to regulate tourism-related businesses and boost marine safety along Phuket’s coastline. These efforts continue after a previous crackdown under Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat's initiative, which revealed 72 illegal jet skis, resulting in fines totaling 720,000 baht.

Despite these measures, illegal rentals persist, often burdening tourists with excessive rental prices and inflated 'damage' fees. This latest operation aims to curb these practices, although it's unclear if any of the recent arrests involve repeat offenders.

While the CIB's report didn’t specifically address scams targeting tourists, the situation underscores the ongoing challenge Phuket faces in regulating the jet ski industry. With tourism being a crucial component of its economy, ensuring legal and fair operations remains a priority for authorities seeking to protect both visitors and the integrity of the local service industry.

Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger

-- 2025-04-22