Report Thai Police Raid Foreign-Owned Clinic in Koh Phangan for Illegal Ops

[snoop1130]

Photo courtesy of Khaosod

 

In a significant crackdown, tourist police raided the LASER ME clinic on Koh Phangan, Surat Thani Province, following allegations of unlicensed cosmetic procedures primarily aimed at Russian tourists.

 

The investigation was launched after a Russian woman reported severe burns and scarring from a laser skin treatment at the clinic. When she sought compensation, the clinic staff allegedly threatened her and cut off communication, prompting her to turn to the authorities.

 

Uncovering the Operation

 

During the raid conducted on 16th July, police discovered Ms. Saitan, a 43-year-old Thai national, managing the clinic. She revealed that the business was owned by Ms. Olesia, a Russian investor residing outside Thailand.

 

The clinic offered a range of procedures including laser hair removal, facial laser treatments, oil massage, and Russian cupping therapy, all operating without the necessary medical facility licence.

 

Financial Details and Legal Action

 

Ms. Saitan, employed by Laser Me Co., Ltd., earned 25% of the clinic's monthly revenue as her salary. Serving an average of 3-4 clients daily, the clinic had a clientele of roughly 600 over six months, generating about 300,000 Thai Baht (approximately £7,000) per month. The majority of customers were foreign, especially Russian nationals.

 

Authorities have charged Ms. Saitan with running an unlicensed medical facility and practising medicine without proper authorisation. She has been taken to Koh Phangan Police Station for further legal proceedings.

 

This case underscores the persistent problem of unlicensed medical tourism operations targeting foreigners in Thailand’s well-trodden tourist areas.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod English 2025-07-17

 

 

[quake]

7 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

The investigation was launched after a Russian woman reported severe burns and scarring from a laser skin treatment at the clinic. When she sought compensation, the clinic staff allegedly threatened her and cut off communication, prompting her to turn to the authorities.

 

 

Well that was never going to happen was it.