CHIANG MAI, THAILAND – A French national was arrested on Huay Kaew Road for overstaying his tourist visa by 60 days, in the second week of intensified immigration patrols across Chiang Mai province.
Arrest on Huay Kaew Road
Officers from the Immigration Bureau Chiang Mai, acting under Colonel Surachai Iamphueng, detained the 60-day overstayer on Friday during an inspection in the urban district. The operation formed part of a broader directive from Police General Kitrat Panphet aimed at identifying foreigners residing in Thailand without valid permits.
“We find those who are staying illegally in Thailand.”
said Colonel Surachai Iamphueng, Immigration Bureau Commander.
Police reports confirmed the arrest occurred during a systematic patrol of Sri Phum District, where investigators from Division 5 conducted surprise document checks on travellers and residents.
Document Check and Admission
During the inspection, officers discovered that the French citizen’s visa had expired more than 60 days earlier. Following questioning at the scene, the suspect acknowledged the violation.
“I stayed too long.”
said the French citizen, according to the police report.
He was transferred to Chang Phueak Police Station for formal charging under Thai immigration law. The case file noted that he would face legal proceedings for residing without valid permission.
Legal Consequences and Deportation
Officials cited Section 81 of Thai Immigration Law, which prescribes penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment and a 20,000 Baht fine for overstaying. Authorities stated that, following court sentencing, the foreigner will be deported and barred from re-entry.
National Crackdown Initiative
The Chiang Mai arrest coincided with a nationwide crackdown led by Police General Kitrat Panphet, who ordered provincial officers to intensify surveillance in major tourism centres including Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
“We are combating criminal foreigners.”
said a spokesperson for Police General Kitrat Panphet.
Immigration Bureau data indicated that weekly enforcement teams now detain several dozen foreigners each week for similar offences. The Bureau has prioritised inspections in high-traffic tourist zones, citing increases in visa violations since early 2024.
Advisory to Foreign Residents
Following the Chiang Mai arrest, immigration authorities renewed calls for compliance among expatriates and tourists.
“Check your visa!”
said an Immigration Bureau spokesperson.
Officials urged foreign nationals to confirm their visa validity dates and seek extensions through authorised immigration offices before expiration. The Immigration Bureau hotline (0 5320 1755) remains open to travellers seeking guidance.
Ongoing Enforcement
According to immigration reports issued this month, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Phuket now serve as focal points for weekly inspection patrols. Officers continue coordinated actions with Division 5 units under Colonel Iamphueng’s supervision, verifying foreign documents across residential and commercial areas.
Authorities confirmed that the enforcement campaign will continue throughout 2024, maintaining the government’s stated policy of strict and consistent action against visa overstays.