Dutchman held for working illegally

PHUKET TOWN: A Dutch national living in Phuket was arrested on Saturday evening for working without a work permit. Police told the Gazette that Provincial Defense Officers, led by Chief Nikorn Torhiranpruek, were conducting a sweep for illegal workers when they found William Pittel, 46, helping his Thai wife to sell limes at the Down Town Night Market, opposite the Chinese market on Ranong Rd. Pittel was taken to Phuket Town Police Station for questioning after he failed to produce a valid work permit. “After questioning, we found that he used to work in a hotel in Phuket Town,” said the case investigator, Pol Lt Kanung Pitakkulthon. “But he no longer works there and his previous work permit had expired.” According to Lt Kanung, Pittel had been living in Phuket for a long time with his wife and two children, and spent most of his time helping his wife sell fruit at their street stall. “Mr Pittel tried to defend himself by saying that he was just helping and not actually working,” said Lt Kanung. “But under Thai law, engaging in such activities in order to earn money is considered as work.” Pittel is currently in detention at the Phuket Provincial Prison, awaiting trial.