Report Chinese National Arrested for Illegally Operating Tour Business in Bangkok

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BANGKOK — A Chinese national, identified as Mr. Yue, 31, has been arrested for illegally running an unauthorised tour business near Bangkok’s Grand Palace. The arrest was made by the Tourist Police after Yue was spotted escorting tourists in a luxury vehicle to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew from Tha Chang Pier on Maharaj Road.

 

Authorities revealed that Yue attempted to evade detection by personally managing and driving tourists, promoting a “premium VIP travel experience” through online platforms without proper authorization.

 

The arrest emerged under directives from Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Pheuakum and Pol. Maj. Gen. Phongsiam Meekhanthong of the Tourist Police Bureau, as part of a crackdown on the “Ten Prohibited Groups,” targeting illegal tour guides and unauthorised operators. Yue now faces charges of operating a tour business without a licence and working illegally without the necessary permits.

 

Tackling Nominee Tour Businesses

 

This apprehension coincides with a new initiative by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, uniting five governmental bodies, including the Department of Business Development and the Tourist Police Bureau. The joint task force, titled the “Joint Operations Center for Solving Problems of Tourism Businesses Using Thai Nominees” (JOCST), aims to combat unlawful nominee tour businesses and guides.

 

Ms. Natreeya Taweewong, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, noted that the collaboration will enhance monitoring and law enforcement, helping to improve standards and safety within Thailand’s tourism industry. The task force will conduct inspections of tour companies and guide operations nationwide.

 

Enforcement Results and Ongoing Efforts

 

Mr. Jaturon Phakdeewanich, Director-General of the Department of Tourism, reported that from October 2024 to March 2025, authorities inspected 940 tour companies and 338 tour guides. Violations primarily involved operating without proper licensing, failing to display business permits, and lacking insurance coverage for tourists. Tour guides were often found working without a licence or failing to present work orders.

 

Companies are urged to renew their licences at least 30 days before expiration and ensure accident insurance for tourists. Information on licensing procedures is available at any of the eight Tourism Business and Guide Registration Office branches.

 

Officials have expressed appreciation for public assistance in reporting illegal operators via the Department of Tourism’s Facebook or email at [email protected]. Public involvement has significantly aided law enforcement effectiveness in tackling tourism sector violations.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod English 2025-05-07