HUA HIN, THAILAND – Prachuap Khiri Khan’s governor has ordered province-wide checks on businesses that may be using Thai nominees to hold land and property for foreigners. The crackdown comes after police arrested 13 foreign nationals in Hua Hin.
Police arrested 13 foreign nationals and searched 15 locations on the same day. At least 33 companies were identified as suspected nominees holding land and real estate for overseas buyers.
Governor calls emergency meeting
Just hours later, Governor Sittichai Sawatsan summoned senior officials to a meeting at Hua Hin City Hall. The gathering kicked off at 1.30 pm on August 10.
Sittichai told all districts and relevant agencies in Prachuap Khiri Khan to step up surveillance, inspection and control of companies that may use Thai straw men.
Authorities ordered to share intelligence
The governor demanded that agencies exchange information more frequently. That way, suspected violations can be investigated faster and action taken sooner.
Officials from the provincial and district administrations, the commerce department and other state agencies attended the meeting. They discussed how to detect and probe possible nominee arrangements.
Deputy governors join the talks
Among those present were Apinya Iam-ampha and Preeda Sukjai, both Deputy Governors, as well as Rattaya At-Han Phoeyphon, Permanent Secretary of the province. Hua Hin District Chief Supachai Krutdam and Siriwan Khanason, Commerce Officer of the province, also took part.
The officials received briefings on rules for foreign businesses under the Foreign Business Act of 1999. Procedures for preventing and investigating the use of nominees were also clarified.
Governor demands strict legal action
The authorities also clarified their respective legal powers and responsibilities. Governor Sittichai demanded strict enforcement within the law and coordinated action across the entire province.
The authorities want to work more closely together.
said a provincial spokesman.