Authorities in Phuket have arrested several business operators for allegedly running accommodation businesses without proper licences after raiding five hotels across the province.
The operation, carried out on July 23 by the Phuket Provincial Administration, was part of a wider government effort to strengthen law enforcement, maintain public order and ensure compliance within the tourism industry.
The crackdown followed directives from Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, with officials saying the inspections aimed to regulate the hotel sector and promote fair competition between local and foreign operators.
During the operation, officers inspected five hotels located in Mueang Phuket, Kathu and Thalang districts, with all properties allegedly found operating without the required permits.
A 157-room hotel in Mueang Phuket was among those inspected, with authorities also examining its ownership structure over suspected nominee arrangements. The company was registered as 49% Russian-owned and 51% Thai-owned.
Another hotel with 45 rooms was found operating without a licence, while officials launched further checks into its ownership details involving two Thai shareholders holding 74% of shares and one Chinese shareholder with a 26% stake.
A third hotel, which has 246 rooms, was also found without a valid licence, although authorities said all registered shareholders were Thai nationals.
Operators of two other hotels, one in Kathu district and another in Thalang district, were arrested and charged under Thailand’s Hotel Act (2004) for allegedly operating without licences.
Those convicted could face up to one year in prison, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both. Additional fines of up to 10,000 baht per day may also be imposed if the offence continues.
Authorities said investigations are ongoing, including checks on ownership structures, financial transactions and other business activities to determine whether further legal action is required.
The Phuket Provincial Administration added that it would continue working with relevant agencies to strengthen enforcement against illegal hotel operations throughout the province.
