Government forms task force to tackle illegal tour operators nationwide
Crackdown aims to protect tourists and restore trust in travel sector
A nationwide joint task force has been established by the government to address the issue of illegal tour operators and unlicensed tour guides, according to deputy government spokesperson Sasikarn Watthanachan.
The task force comprises officials from five agencies: the Tourism Ministry, the Business Development Department, the Department of Special Investigation, the Tourism Police Bureau, and the Immigration Bureau. Their efforts will concentrate on tour companies and guides operating in major tourist destinations throughout the country.
From October last year to March this year, 940 tour operators underwent inspections, revealing that many were operating without licences or failing to provide necessary insurance coverage for tourists. Additionally, of the 338 guides questioned, a significant number lacked proper licensing.
Sasikarn highlighted that offending operators could face fines reaching up to 500,000 baht (US$15,180) and/or imprisonment for up to two years. Unlicensed tour guides may incur fines up to 100,000 baht (US$3,035) and/or a jail term of up to one year, reported Bangkok Post.
In similar news, Thailand’s sunny tourist hotspots took a serious turn as Phuket Tourist Police launched a targeted operation against illegal tour guide activities, resulting in the arrest of two Russian nationals and fines for two tour companies.
The April 23 crackdown, led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Ekkachai Siri, brought together officers from various police units and the Southern Region 2 Tourist Business and Guide Registration Office. Their goal was to stamp out unlicensed tourism operations and uphold the Tourist Business and Guide Act.
Police reported that the two Russians were caught in the act, working as tour guides without the required licences, an offence under Thai law, which reserves such roles strictly for Thai citizens.
One suspect was apprehended at the Laem Tukkae public beach pier on Koh Siray, while the other was taken into custody at Baan Hin Rom Pier in Klong Khian, within Phang Nga’s Takua Thung district.
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