Immigration’s fruitful swoop on illegal vendors selling durians

Immigration Division 1 officers swooped on illegal seasonal fruit vendors, arresting several foreign nationals attempting to sell durians and other fruits on Nawamin Road in Bangkok. They were promptly apprehended despite efforts to flee on motorised tricycles.

Commander of Immigration Division 1, Police Major General Prasart Khemaprasit, along with Deputy Commander, Police Colonel Keeratisak Kongkiatsiri, and Investigation Superintendent, Police Colonel Kachapon Pathamang, today directed an operation to target unauthorised fruit vendors.

The team focused on foreign nationals selling seasonal fruits, especially durians, currently in high demand.

During the operation on Nawamin Road, three foreign vendors were detained after attempting to escape on two motorised tricycles and one mobile fruit stand.

Further investigation led to the arrest of another individual at a nearby rented house, bringing the total to four detainees, including one Laotian and three Vietnamese nationals.

At the residence, authorities also discovered a stockpile of jackfruits and other fruits, intended for future sales.

Upon verifying the passports of those arrested, the authorities found that all four individuals had entered Thailand on tourist visas, which do not permit employment or street vending.

Selling goods in this manner is explicitly prohibited for foreign nationals. The detainees have been handed over to the Khlong Khraem Police Station for legal proceedings.

Authorities expressed that this effort aims to protect local businesses and ensure that only those with proper authorisation can work in Thailand, further stating that foreign nationals caught engaging in unauthorised work will face legal consequences.

The operation is part of a broader effort to enforce immigration laws and support the local economy through the protection of the interests of Thai citizens, reported Khaosod.

The crackdown on illegal vendors is expected to continue, with authorities remaining vigilant against any violations. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities to help maintain law and order.

The detained individuals will remain in custody pending further investigation and legal proceedings. The authorities have reiterated their zero-tolerance policy towards illegal employment and emphasised the importance of following legal protocols for anyone wishing to work in Thailand.