Chinese Fugitive Arrested in Phuket After 2,823-Day Overstay

Thai police have arrested a 52-year-old Chinese national wanted by authorities in China after he overstayed his permitted stay in Thailand by 2,823 days — nearly eight years.

The suspect, identified as Mr. Yong, was apprehended at around 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 13, near a residence on Chao Fah Road in Phuket Town. Officers from the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) and Phuket Provincial Police acted on information provided by the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok, which identified Yong as a fugitive linked to several court cases in China.

Police confirmed his identity using his passport before taking him to Phuket City Police Station for processing.

He was charged under Thai immigration law with remaining in the country beyond his permitted period of stay.

Yong admitted to the overstay after being informed of his rights through a Chinese interpreter.

Information provided by Chinese authorities indicates that Yong’s name appeared in several cases in Langfang, Hebei Province, in 2017. The allegations reportedly include forced demolitions of village homes, business disputes, disruption of official inspections and a violent assault.

According to the Chinese records, groups allegedly acting under Yong’s direction or influence forced residents from properties and used heavy machinery to demolish homes. Other cases involved the takeover of company offices and interference with business operations, as well as disruption of an official hotel inspection.

In another incident, a man was reportedly attacked with an iron bar near a district court and suffered life-threatening injuries that required his spleen to be removed.

Chinese authorities have linked Yong to alleged offences ranging from property damage and public disorder to aggravated assault. The allegations remain subject to judicial proceedings in China.

Thai authorities said Yong will first face penalties under Thai law for his immigration violation. His case will then proceed through diplomatic and legal channels, including possible extradition or further cooperation with Chinese authorities.