Phang Nga –
Authorities in Phang Nga have launched a sweeping crackdown on nominee businesses and foreign-owned enterprises operating illegally, in line with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s urgent policy to protect Thai economic interests.
Governor Phairat Phetchayuan, together with Provincial Police Commander Pol. Maj. Gen. Chaikiat Wiriyasatikul led a multi-agency task force of more than 16 government units in coordinated raids across Takua Thung and Thai Mueang. The operation followed two months of intelligence gathering, surveillance, and evidence collection.
Investigators uncovered multiple violations, including unlicensed hotel operations and foreign nationals working without permits. Several offenders were arrested on-site, while authorities continue to probe financial records, shareholder structures, and business networks suspected of nominee arrangements. In Thai Mueang, officials also detained a foreign executive found working without a valid work permit, with further inquiries underway into connected enterprises.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Chaikiat said that the task force has been systematically building cases against nominee networks, leading to search and arrest warrants in this operation. He noted that additional investigations are ongoing, particularly into businesses exploiting legal loopholes to profit unfairly from Thailand’s economy
The crackdown specifically targets companies using Thai nationals as proxy shareholders or disguising foreign ownership to bypass restrictions. Officials argue such practices distort fair competition, deprive local entrepreneurs of opportunities, and undermine Thai workers’ livelihoods.
Authorities revealed that 174 businesses in Phang Nga are under scrutiny for potential nominee activity, including 15 high-risk cases flagged for immediate investigation. The province pledged to intensify proactive enforcement, dismantle nominee networks at every level, and safeguard the tourism sector and broader economy for Thai citizens.
