Picture courtesy of Pattaya News

 

A major operation targeting illegal foreign workers has swept through Thailand's Chon Buri province, focusing on businesses ranging from restaurants to nightlife venues. This crackdown, which included multiple raids and tip-offs from social media, has led to a series of arrests and legal actions as authorities intensify efforts to tackle illegal labour practices.

 

On June 11, a joint task force conducted raids in the Bang Lamung district, apprehending eight undocumented workers at a company in the Huay Yai subdistrict. Among those detained were seven Myanmar nationals—five men and two women—and a Cambodian woman, all charged under Section 8 of the Alien Employment Act for working without permits. The company’s director was also charged for hiring these workers illegally, facing penalties under Section 9.

 

The suspects were taken to Huay Yai Police Station to face prosecution. However, these arrests were just the tip of the legal iceberg.

 

Later the same day, immigration officials raided three Chinese restaurants on Pattaya Second Road after concerned TikTok users highlighted suspicious activities. In these operations, officers detained eight more Myanmar nationals—two men and six women. Five were charged with working without permits, while three faced additional charges for failing to report employment details to the authorities within 15 days. The individuals were brought to Pattaya City Police Station, and their employers are also being legally pursued.

 

This proactive approach forms part of Thailand’s broader initiative to combat illegal labour in key tourist and economic zones. The operation follows a previous sting on March 28 at The Wild 69 nightclub in Central Pattaya, where six undocumented women from Laos and Cambodia were arrested for working without permits.

 

Thai authorities have made it clear that these raids will continue, targeting both rogue employers and undocumented workers as part of a sustained effort to enforce legal employment practices across the region. As the crackdown progresses, businesses and workers operating outside the law remain firmly in the crosshairs of law enforcement.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-12

 

 

14 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

immigration officials raided three Chinese restaurants on Pattaya Second Road after concerned TikTok users highlighted suspicious activities

and the disappearance of many local cats.

 

Times must be hard if authorities are arresting workers early in the month.  SOP is to wait till near the end so the employer saves on wages.