Koh Samui Crackdown Targets 60 Suspected Nominee Businesses

Koh Samui Crackdown Targets 60 Suspected Nominee Businesses

Thai authorities have uncovered 60 suspected illegal nominee businesses during a major crackdown on Koh Samui involving more than 300 police and government officials. Investigators reviewed all 12,906 companies registered on the island, finding 8,254 with foreign shareholders and identifying hundreds for closer scrutiny over possible Thai nominee arrangements. The investigation resulted in complaints involving 88 suspects and properties worth around 1.2 billion baht, while police have so far arrested 14 foreign nationals from several countries. Authorities say the networks were connected to businesses including unlicensed nurseries, luxury villa developments, companies allegedly created to obtain visas and work permits, and a hotel operating without the required licence. The operation forms part of a broader campaign targeting nominee structures in Thailand’s major tourist provinces and investigating anyone who may have helped foreigners bypass ownership restrictions.