Over 100 foreigners arrested in Phuket police blitz
Phuket police sent a strong message to law-breaking foreigners after arresting over 100 people and issuing 1,625 traffic citations in a sweeping week-long crackdown.
The operation, running from February 10 to 16, targeted illegal businesses, visa violations, drug offences, and reckless driving, according to Phuket Provincial Police Commander Police Major General Sinlert Sukhum.
The coordinated effort, involving Phuket Immigration and Tourist Police, was part of a nationwide campaign to combat transnational crime and illegal foreign activities, ensuring safety for both residents and tourists.
During the operation, police recorded 103 criminal offences, including:
- 30 cases of immigration law violations
- 9 cases of illegal tour operations
- 8 cases of unauthorised businesses
- 8 drug-related offences
- 10 cases of drunk driving
- 18 arrests on outstanding warrants
- 20 additional miscellaneous infractions
- 1,625 traffic violations
Police revealed that 2,422 foreigners have been arrested in Phuket since the start of 2024, with over 32,000 traffic citations issued.
“Phuket police reaffirm our commitment to maintaining peace, order, and safety, ensuring the province remains a top travel destination.”
Tourists were urged to follow local laws and avoid risky behaviour, reported The Phuket News.
Officials also encouraged residents to report suspicious foreign activities to the nearest police station or via the 191 emergency hotline.
In similar news, Bang Lamung police launched a weekend raid in Naklua, arresting four foreign nationals working illegally behind Naklua New Market in Chon Buri province. The operation, carried out on Saturday, February 15, was part of an ongoing crackdown on unauthorised foreign workers.
During the raid, officers discovered that two of the individuals had been overstaying their visas for an astonishing six years.
Their prolonged illegal stay placed them firmly on the radar of immigration authorities, leading to their immediate arrest. Now facing legal action, the detainees are set for deportation to their home countries.
In other news, Immigration Bureau officials deported four foreigners in Pai district, Mae Hong Son, for illegally working and operating a bar without proper permits. Concerns had been growing among locals over the increasing number of Israeli nationals, with some businesses banning them due to disruptive behaviour.
Latest Thailand News
