Police Raid Two Unlicensed Hotels on Koh Phangan

Pictures courtesy of MGR

Police in Surat Thani have raided two hotels on Koh Phangan, arresting five people for operating without the required permits and for violations of immigration and labour laws. The enforcement action, carried out on 7 December 2025, comes as authorities intensify checks during the high-season to deter illegal business operations and foreign nationals working unlawfully. Officers say the move aims to protect tourists, ensure order and uphold safety standards ahead of the New Year period.

The operation was ordered by Pol Lt Gen Sithichai Lokkanpai, Commander of Provincial Police Region 8, with coordination from Pol Maj Gen Suwat Suksri, Surat Thani Provincial Police Chief. A team led by Pol Col Sombat Chamsaeng, Deputy Provincial Police Chief; Pol Col Apichat Chansamret, Koh Phangan Police Superintendent; investigators from the provincial police unit; Surat Thani Immigration; and district officials inspected two establishments in Moo 1, Ban Tai, Koh Phangan. Officers found both locations operating as hotels without authorisation and detained three women, Miss Dace, 44, a Latvian national, Ms Ni, 45 and Ms Phet, 33, both Thai, on charges of jointly operating a hotel business without permission.

Two Myanmar nationals were also arrested, Mr Zwe, 35, and Mr Myint, 35, accused of working without notifying a change of employer within 15 days from the date they started employment. All suspects were taken to Koh Phangan Police Station for legal proceedings. Authorities say the inspections follow ongoing concerns about foreign nationals taking jobs reserved for Thai workers and businesses using nominees to bypass legal requirements.

Pol Col Sirichai Suksat, Deputy Provincial Police Chief and spokesperson, confirmed that Pol Maj Gen Suwat has instructed all station chiefs to tighten monitoring during peak tourist months. He emphasised cooperation between immigration police and local administrative officials to identify unlawful accommodation services, enforce the Immigration Act and ensure compliance with foreign labour regulations. Officials said these measures are in line with the National Police Chief’s policy to maintain public order and bolster confidence among residents and visitors.

Manageronline reported that further checks across key tourist areas are expected in the coming weeks as part of heightened high-season enforcement. Authorities say additional inspections, checkpoints and inter-agency coordination will continue to curb illegal operations and ensure safety throughout the New Year festival. Legal procedures for the five arrested individuals will proceed under the law, with outcomes to be determined by the investigating officers and the courts.

Key Takeaways

• Police raided two unlicensed hotel businesses in Koh Phangan on 7 December 2025, arresting five suspects.

• Three women were charged with operating a hotel without permission, while two Myanmar nationals were accused of failing to report a change of employer.

• Authorities will continue intensified inspections during the high-season to enforce immigration and labour laws.

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 Adapted  by  Asean Now from MGRonline 2025-12-08