Pictures courtesy of TMN

Immigration officers in Pattaya have arrested three foreign nationals for working without permits on a tour boat docked at Laem Bali Hai Pier in South Pattaya. The arrests were made on 13 February 2026 following complaints that the vessel had employed foreign workers illegally. All three suspects were handed over to investigators at Pattaya City Police Station for legal proceedings.

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The inspection was led by Pol Lt Col Kittipat Hongchoowet, Inspector of Chonburi Immigration, together with investigation and suppression officers. The operation targeted a so-called “pirate” tour boat moored at Laem Bali Hai Pier after reports alleged it had recruited foreign nationals without authorisation. Officers found both Thai and foreign staff working aboard the vessel.

Three foreign nationals were detained during the inspection. They included a Russian woman working in public relations, a Chinese woman working as a DJ and a Myanmar man providing food services to tourists on board. Each was charged with “working without permission” under Thai law before being transferred to Pattaya City Police Station.

The enforcement action was carried out under the direction of Pol Col Naphatsapong Khositsuriyamanee, Superintendent of Chonburi Immigration, and Pol Lt Col Kawinwat Arayasuriwong, Deputy Superintendent. They had instructed officers to intensify suppression of illegal foreign labour and foreign criminals in the province in line with official policy. Authorities stated the operation formed part of a broader crackdown in the area.

No further details were released regarding the tour boat operator or possible additional charges. Officials confirmed that legal proceedings would continue in accordance with the law. The case remains under investigation by Pattaya City Police Station.

TMN reported that immigration authorities are expected to continue inspections of tourism-related businesses in Chonburi. The crackdown reflects ongoing efforts to enforce labour and immigration regulations in key tourist destinations.

Key Takeaways

• Three foreign nationals were arrested on 13 February 2026 for working without permits on a Pattaya tour boat.

• The suspects were a Russian PR worker, a Chinese DJ and a Myanmar food service worker.

• All were transferred to Pattaya City Police Station for further legal action.

Join the discussion?

  Adapted by ASEAN Now TMN 15 Feb 2026

2 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

No further details were released regarding the tour boat operator or possible additional charges. ... The case remains under investigation by Pattaya City Police Station.

Until an agreement can be reached with the tour boat operator.

13 minutes ago, mikebell said:

Until an agreement can be reached with the tour boat operator.

Its a great looker, was moored off Jomptiem for a week or two.