PATTAYA, THAILAND – Three foreign workers were arrested at Laem Bali Hai Pier in South Pattaya after authorities said they had been working on a tour boat without valid permits as part of a wider crackdown on illegal labor and so‑called pirate tour vessels in Chonburi.
Raid on alleged pirate tour boat
The inspection of the boat, described locally as a “pirate” tour vessel, was carried out by Pol Lt Col Kittipat Hongchoowet, an inspector with Chonburi Immigration, together with investigation and suppression units. The action followed complaints that the tour boat moored at the pier had allegedly employed foreign staff without the authorization required under local labor and immigration law.
Three foreigners detained on board
During the check, officers reported finding both Thai and foreign staff working on board, including three foreign nationals who were temporarily detained. According to officials, the group consisted of a Russian woman said to have been working in public relations, a Chinese woman who had allegedly been DJing, and a man from Myanmar who apparently handled food service for tourists.
Charges for working without permission
All three suspects were charged under current law with “working without permission” and transferred to the Pattaya City Police Station for further processing, according to the authorities. Investigations into the boat’s operations and any potential additional allegations were continuing, with no further details on the operator or possible extra charges released so far.
Part of broader enforcement drive
The operation was carried out under the direction of Pol Col Naphatsapong Khositsuriyamanee, superintendent of Chonburi Immigration, and Pol Lt Col Kawinwat Arayasuriwong, deputy superintendent, who had ordered their teams to increase pressure on illegal foreign workers and foreign offenders in the province. Local media reported that the raid formed part of an ongoing focus on tourism‑related businesses in Chonburi, aimed at stricter enforcement of labor and immigration rules in key coastal resort areas.
Debate over tough checks in tourist hubs
Illegal employment remained a sensitive issue in popular tourist destinations, leading authorities to tighten controls in order to enforce regulations and prevent market distortions.
“Are such operations important for maintaining order – or could they harm tourism?”
said local commentary, reflecting the public debate.