Stricter controls on Koh Samui: Foreigners are the focus of the police!

Stricter controls on Koh Samui: Foreigners are the focus of the police!

The Royal Thai Police (RTP) has significantly increased controls on foreigners on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. The measures are a direct response to the growing number of legal violations committed by foreign nationals. These include, but are not limited to, illegal nominee transactions, land occupations and unauthorized work activities. Pol Gen Samran Nuanma, the deputy national police chief, chaired an important meeting in Surat Thani to crack down on these illegal practices. The deputy governor and other officials responsible for security on the islands were present. Loud Bangkok Post Combating crimes committed by foreigners against Thai citizens is a top priority.

Intensified surveillance and legal measures

The government authorities have decided to take legal action against the perpetrators as well as possible accomplices and officials involved in such illegal activities. The national police chief has stressed that the law must be applied consistently, transparently and uninterrupted to promote public trust. “Law-abiding foreigners and tourists will be treated fairly and protected from unlawful claims,” it said in a statement.

To protect the integrity of the region, immigration officials as well as the regional provincial police in Region 8 have been tasked with closely reviewing visa extensions and registrations of foreign nationals in the southern provinces. These measures specifically focus on suspicious transactions and do not affect any specific nationality. Ongoing investigations into unlicensed car rental companies and unauthorized tour operations operated by foreigners were also taken up.

Local complaints and economic impact

In addition to police activities, Governor Theerut Supawiboonphol of Surat Thani has confirmed reports of illegal operations by foreign investors on Koh Phangan and Koh Samui. This leads to increased scrutiny of corrupt officials and endangered local livelihoods. Residents and business owners are increasingly complaining about inappropriate behavior, particularly from Israeli tourists and business people. Thailand Tip reports that these practices not only damage the tourist image but also lead to financial losses.

In an unexpected twist, the governor called an emergency meeting where two task forces were set up. The first unit is tasked with verifying the legality of foreigners' entry, while the second focuses on land ownership and foreigners' business activities. Recent investigations led to the arrest of a foreigner who was working illegally on Koh Phangan. Another irregular construction case, where a luxury villa project was built in a protected forest area without permission, raises concerns about possible illegal construction activities and the damage that this increasing activity could cause.

Legal framework for foreigners

Thailand has strict rules on property acquisition by foreigners, which often make it difficult to settle or invest here. Foreign citizens are generally only allowed to buy land under certain conditions and require permits, which are usually only granted under certain conditions. An investment of at least 40 million baht in approved securities allows the purchase of land up to 1 rai (1,600 sqm) for residential purposes. For an overview of the legal regulations for foreigners regarding real estate in Thailand Frank Legal Tax.

The authorities' intensive controls and legal action are a clear indication that decisive action is being taken against unlawful practices and the exploitation of loopholes in the law. Koh Samui and Koh Phangan remain popular travel destinations, but under the strict scrutiny of the authorities, who insist on proper and legal business practices.