Picture courtesy of SiamRath 

 

Phuket marine police have arrested a 34-year-old Russian national for working illegally as a tour guide at a pier in Rassada, Mueang district. The suspect, identified only as Anton, was detained on 17 September 2025 while leading tourists to vehicles after they disembarked from a boat returning from Phi Phi Island. Officers found he had no valid work permit or licence to operate as a guide.

 

The operation was carried out under orders from Pol Maj Gen Setthasiri Nipphaya, Commander of the Marine Police Division, and Pol Col Tharakorn Lertporncharoen, Deputy Commander. Pol Col Thanawat Hinyokhin, Superintendent of Sub-Division 8, and Pol Lt Col Wisanu Jinawong, Chief of Sub-Division 3, led the arrest. Officers noticed Anton behaving like a tour guide, escorting tourists and holding documents resembling a group list, prompting them to conduct a check.

 

On inspection, Anton was found carrying a document titled “JOB ORDER PHI PHI – BAMBOO,” listing crew names, but his name was absent. When asked for a passport and work permit, he was unable to provide either. Authorities concluded he was unlawfully working as a guide and in breach of labour and tourism laws.

 

Police charged Anton with two offences: working without a work permit under the Royal Decree on the Management of Foreign Workers’ Employment, and working as a tour guide without authorisation under the Tourism Business and Tour Guide Act. He admitted to the charges during questioning.

 

The arrest highlights ongoing enforcement at Phuket’s busy piers, where foreign nationals are sometimes found working illegally in the tourism sector. Licensed Thai guides and tour operators have previously raised concerns about unlicensed foreign guides taking jobs reserved under local regulations. Authorities stated the operation was part of a wider effort to curb unlawful activity in the industry.

 

Anton was taken to Phuket City Police Station for further legal proceedings. Police confirmed that the case will proceed under standard judicial processes. Officials also noted that they will continue inspections around ports and tourist sites to prevent similar violations.

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• A 34-year-old Russian was arrested in Phuket for illegally working as a tour guide.

• He was unable to show a work permit or tour guide licence and admitted the charges.

• Authorities will pursue the case through legal channels and continue inspections.

 

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  Adapted by Asean Now from Siamrath 2025-09-18

 

 

 

 

Not again....

Should have used a Thai guide their Russian must be soooo good.