Five Phuket Officials Transferred After Extortion Allegations from Patong Businesses

Thailand’s Department of Provincial Administration has ordered the temporary transfer of five senior Phuket officials following growing allegations of extortion and misconduct connected to entertainment venue licensing in Patong.

The order was issued on Wednesday, May 20, by Department Director-General Naruetcha Khosasivilai after complaints from nightlife business operators escalated into a public protest on Bangla Road.

According to the official directive, the transfers will take effect from May 25 through June 24, 2026. Authorities stated that the reassignment is intended to prevent possible interference with evidence and to ensure a transparent and impartial investigation.

The move also aligns with Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s broader campaign against local influence networks and corruption.

The five transferred officials include:

• Phuket Provincial Clerk Rungreung Thimabut, reassigned to the College of Administration for training and evaluation work.

• Mueang Phuket District Chief Siwatch Rawangkul, transferred to the Bureau of Local Administration.

• Thalang District Chief Wilailak Rueangphon, moved to the Academic and Planning Division.

• Kathu District Chief Akkarapol Sutthirak Jitsupap, reassigned to the Communications Division.

• Phuket Provincial Defense Officer Danai Suksakul, transferred to the Secretariat Office.

The controversy emerged after entertainment venue operators and employees gathered along Bangla Road in Patong to protest what they described as unfair treatment, licensing delays, and alleged demands for bribes from officials.

Business owners argued that many venues had complied with application procedures and paid the required fees but continued facing prolonged approval delays, inspections, and legal pressure.

Protesters called on the government to improve transparency, accelerate licensing procedures, and apply regulations equally across all entertainment businesses in Phuket.

The demonstrations drew significant public attention and added pressure on authorities to investigate the accusations and restore confidence among local business operators.