PHUKET, Thailand – In a large-scale raid, Thai authorities have arrested 16 Chinese construction managers and 62 workers from Myanmar at a luxury construction site. The reason for their detention is suspected foreign straw man business operations and massive violations of immigration and labor laws.
Residents Raise Alarm
Residents in Phuket observed suspicious activities at the construction site, known as “Ayana Heights Seaview Residence Phuket,” and reported them to the authorities. The high number of Chinese nationals allegedly working as engineers and construction managers there particularly fueled suspicion. These tips were forwarded to a special unit tasked with combating new security threats in the 14 southern provinces, where it quickly became apparent that something was amiss.
Raid on June 18
On June 18, 2026, officers coordinated an operation with the 41st Military Police Battalion and soldiers from the 15th Infantry Regiment. Their objective was to inspect the luxurious construction project, where Chinese investors were suspected of operating through straw man structures. The inspectors arrived and checked the entire workforce on site, and what they discovered prompted immediate action by the investigators.
False Visas and No Papers
The 16 Chinese nationals are accused of working under an incorrect visa category. Instead of entering as simple tourists or business travelers, they allegedly managed construction projects as engineers and supervisors, a clear violation of Thai labor law. The 62 workers from Myanmar had even fewer credentials. According to the police, they could provide no evidence of having legally entered Thailand.
To Cherng Talay Police Station
All 78 individuals arrested were separated on the spot and taken to the Cherng Talay Police Station. Investigators are now working diligently to prepare the case files for the Phuket Provincial Court. The allegations range from illegal entry to violations of the strict regulations for foreign workers in the Kingdom.
Deportation After Proceedings
Once the court proceedings are concluded, the next step is already decided. The foreign workers will be transferred to the Phuket Immigration Office. From there, their deportation from Thailand will be carried out. The country intends to rigorously suppress criminal dealings involving straw men.
Investigations Widen
Authorities stated that the investigations are far from over. They are now examining whether further offenses were committed in connection with the business activities of the foreign stakeholders. Every violation discovered by officers during the ongoing investigations will be strictly prosecuted under Thai law.