Chinese Workers Held in Phuket Crackdown

Thai authorities have arrested 16 Chinese site supervisors and 62 Myanmar workers during an inspection of a construction project in Phuket, following allegations of possible foreign nominee business activity. The operation was carried out on 18 June 2026 and resulted in multiple alleged immigration and employment law violations being identified.

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The inspection was launched after residents in Phuket reported suspicious activity at a construction development where Chinese nationals were allegedly working as engineers and site supervisors, while most labourers were Myanmar nationals. The information was passed to the Command for the Control and Resolution of New Forms of Security Threats and Suppression of Associated Crimes across the 14 southern provinces.

Officials coordinated with personnel from the 41st Military Police Battalion, the 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, and other relevant agencies to inspect the Ayana Heights Seaview Residence Phuket project.

Initial checks found several alleged breaches of the law. Authorities arrested 16 Chinese nationals accused of working under the wrong visa category. They also detained 62 Myanmar workers who were unable to provide evidence of lawful entry into Thailand.

All suspects were separated for legal proceedings and transferred to Cherng Talay Police Station for further action. Investigators will prepare case files for submission to the Phuket Provincial Court in accordance with legal procedures.

Following completion of court proceedings, all foreign workers involved will be handed to the Phuket Immigration Office for deportation from Thailand.

The operation follows public complaints regarding possible foreign involvement in business activities through nominee arrangements. Authorities said investigations are continuing to establish the full facts and determine whether additional offences relating to foreign business operations have occurred.

NBT reported that officials are also expanding the inquiry into matters connected with the activities of foreign nationals involved in the project. Authorities stated that any violations discovered during the ongoing investigation will be dealt with strictly under Thai law.

Picture courtesy of NBT

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Adapted by ASEAN Now NBT 19 June 2026

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