PHUKET, THAILAND – Authorities on the holiday island announced a major crackdown on illegal foreign workers after a high-level security meeting at Phuket City Hall, with a particular focus on tourist districts.
Security chiefs agree on joint master plan
On Thursday, 19 February, the security leadership of the island met under the command of Generalmajor Setthasan Sirisophon. Senior figures from the army, police, immigration and other agencies discussed a coordinated response to the growing number of undocumented foreigners. The aim was to draw up a common master plan, as the situation had become more complex than straightforward illegal entry.
“It is no longer just about illegal immigration.”
said officials in their summary of the meeting.
Hotspots from Ratsada to Karon identified
Authorities reported that they had analysed where the problems were most acute and identified several hotspots. In Ratsada district, officials pointed to issues with subletting on state-owned land, while in the large construction area of Chalong foreign workers were said to be changing employers illegally. In Karon and other beach areas, foreigners were increasingly moving into the service sector, often to the detriment of Thai nationals.
Protected jobs and nominee companies in focus
Officials highlighted that more foreigners were allegedly taking up jobs that are legally reserved for Thai workers. The law in this area was described as strict. They also raised allegations involving so‑called nominees, Thai front persons who register companies on behalf of foreigners.
“That undermines not only the economy but also security,”
said an investigator about the nominee arrangements.
Coordinated inspections and data sharing
The new strategy provided for close cooperation among police, immigration and the labour office, which planned to carry out joint inspections. Particular attention was to be paid to worker accommodation, where officers intended to check documents more intensively and verify conditions. The exchange of information between agencies was also to be improved so that no cases of illegal employment would slip through the net.
Generalmajor orders continuous, tough action
Generalmajor Setthasan Sirisophon strongly urged officials to step up their efforts.
“We must act proactively and continuously!”
said the general, calling on agencies to pool their resources and accelerate checks in risk areas. In the event of violations, there would be no leniency.
“Strict legal steps must follow – no matter who is behind it!”
said Setthasan.
Protecting Phuket’s tourism image
According to the authorities, the broad offensive pursued a clear objective: to preserve Phuket’s image as a safe and reputable tourism destination. The island depended on tourism, they said, and officials wanted to prevent crime and illegal activities from driving away visitors and damaging the local economy.
“Public order and security have top priority,”
said the generalmajor, sending a clear signal to undocumented foreigners that they should prepare for tougher enforcement.
Impact on tourists and document checks
Officials stressed that nothing would initially change for ordinary tourists. The controls were aimed specifically at illegal workers and other offenders and were intended to increase safety for all visitors to the island. Travellers who were in the country legally had, according to the authorities, nothing to fear.
However, holidaymakers were advised to keep their documents readily available. Checks could cause short delays, which officials said were a trade‑off for greater security across Phuket.