PHUKET, THAILAND – Authorities carried out a large-scale raid at Surin Beach following a violent brawl between beach vendors, placing five alleged illegal sellers in custody.
Coordinated raid targets illegal beach occupation
From late morning to afternoon, enforcement teams moved into Surin Beach in a coordinated operation led by district chief Siwat Rawangkul. Dozens of officials from the district administration, volunteer defence forces (OrSor), village heads, police officers, municipal wardens and even forest officials took part. Their stated aim was to act against illegal beach vendors who had occupied the public beach with sunshades and loungers and were selling goods there.
Five suspects accused of illegal beach takeover
Five people were arrested during the operation and were accused of the illegal takeover of a section of the beach. The Cherng Talay local administration was instructed to file an official complaint, and the case was handed over to investigators at Cherng Talay Police Station.
“This measure is part of our efforts to restore order and prevent public disturbances at this popular tourist beach.”
said authorities.
Video of violent brawl triggered the operation
The large-scale intervention by the state followed the circulation of a video over the weekend showing a serious fight between beach vendors. They were seen using fists and sticks as they argued over lucrative business areas along the shore. According to officials, this image of chaos was the final straw and prompted action to protect the image of Phuket as a major tourist destination.
Round-the-clock monitoring ordered at Surin Beach
The district administration announced that a permanent monitoring team would now be deployed at Surin Beach. OrSor forces, municipal wardens, police and volunteers were ordered to patrol the beach around the clock to prevent further clashes and guarantee free access for all. The arrangement was to remain in place until a “sustainable solution and a clear set of rules” for sunshades and loungers at Surin Beach was established.
Authorities issue stern warning to rule-breakers
Officials underlined that anyone continuing to violate regulations on the use of the public beach would face further legal action. They stressed that the beaches of Phuket should be open to everyone and not become a battlefield for the commercial interests of a few. Surin, often promoted as a dream beach, was to be restored as a place of relaxation rather than conflict.