A Russian national was arrested in Phang Nga yesterday for illegally working as a tour guide while leading a group of foreign tourists. The unnamed suspect was detained at the Phang Nga Wildlife Breeding Station after being observed guiding visitors at Suwan Kuha Temple. The arrest follows reports from temple staff who noticed the man escorting foreign tourists and providing them with information.

Get today's headlines by email

Authorities intercepted the suspect, who was traveling with ten foreign tourists in a van. A search revealed documents related to tour guiding, confirming his role with a registered travel agency. However, the suspect lacked both a valid work permit and a licensed tour guide certificate, leading to charges under the Tourism Business and Tour Guide Act.

Police confirmed the suspect faces penalties including up to one year in prison and fines reaching 100,000 baht. Additionally, charges for working without a permit and in occupations reserved for Thai nationals are being pursued. The travel agency could also incur fines up to 500,000 baht for permitting tours without a licensed Thai guide.

The Department of Tourism emphasizes the severity of unlicensed guiding, citing impacts on local employment and tourism standards. As investigations continue, the incident has sparked discussions on the regulation of foreign workers in the tourism sector.

Join the discussion?

Already a member?

  Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 22 May 2026

View full article

steep fines