Chonburi authorities launched coordinated raids across six locations in Pattaya on 3 July 2026 as part of an investigation into suspected foreign nominee businesses, uncovering an unlicensed luxury pool villa operation and seizing 20 cylinders of nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas. Four Chinese nationals found renting one of the villas were detained for questioning as officers expanded their investigation into the source of the gas and possible legal violations.

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The operation began at 9.30am under the direction of Chonburi Governor Narit Niramaiwong, alongside Deputy Provincial Clerk Khwanruen Srichan, Bang Lamung District Chief Anusak Piriyom, military, police, immigration, land office, revenue and commerce officials. Officers simultaneously searched six locations in Pattaya after investigators gathered evidence suggesting foreign investors were operating businesses through suspected Thai nominees.

One of the main targets was a housing estate in Soi Bongkot, South Pattaya, where investigators executed a search warrant at a company believed to be linked to Chinese investors. The development contained 21 high-end houses, each with a private swimming pool, which were being rented out daily as pool villas despite lacking a hotel licence. Authorities also found the properties had been approved only for residential use rather than commercial accommodation.

Investigators seized booking records, company registration documents and financial accounts to examine money trails and identify the true beneficiaries of the business. Officials said legal action would follow if evidence showed Thai nationals had been used as nominees to hold shares or property on behalf of foreign investors.

During the inspection, Governor Narit discovered cylinders of nitrous oxide placed beside a glass wall on the balcony of one villa occupied by four Chinese nationals. A detailed search recovered 20 laughing gas cylinders, some of which had already been emptied. The cylinders were seized and the four occupants were taken to Chonburi Immigration for further questioning after initially telling investigators they had purchased the gas through WeChat for personal use.

Governor Narit said preliminary findings also suggested some Thai shareholders listed in suspected companies held shares worth between 70 and 80 million baht despite occupations that appeared inconsistent with such investments. Those cases will be examined further, and the Ministry of Commerce will file complaints where offences are identified.

The governor also revealed that authorities are investigating around 349 companies across Chonburi suspected of illegally holding land through foreign-controlled entities. If violations are confirmed, owners may be ordered to dispose of the land, with properties potentially auctioned if they fail to comply within 180 days.

He warned Thai nationals against acting as nominees for foreign investors, saying such offences carry prison terms and fines, while providing false information to assist foreign ownership could also result in criminal charges. He added that the province supports legitimate foreign investment but will take firm action against businesses operating without licences or allowing premises to be used for illegal activities.

Pictures courtesy of แจ็ค โพธิ์แดง

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Adapted by ASEAN Now แจ็ค โพธิ์แดง 4 July 2026

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