Foreign Suspect Arrested Over Alleged Nominee Scheme Operating Luxury Villas in Phuket

Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has arrested a foreign national accused of using Thai nominees to unlawfully operate a luxury villa rental business in Phuket.

The suspect, identified only as Mr. Ajid, was taken into custody on July 8 by officers from the DSI’s Surveillance and Intelligence Center in cooperation with Immigration Police at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The arrest was made under a warrant issued by the Criminal Court on April 21, 2026.

According to investigators, Mr. Ajid is suspected of violating Thailand’s Foreign Business Act by working with Thai nationals to conceal foreign ownership and control of companies engaged in a restricted business sector.

Authorities allege that he served as both a director and shareholder of businesses operating luxury pool villas for rent in Phuket. Under Thai law, this type of business activity is reserved for Thai nationals unless special permission has been granted.

During the arrest, officers informed the suspect of his legal rights and followed procedures required under Thailand’s Criminal Procedure Code and the Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance Act, with the entire detention process recorded using audio and video equipment.

Following the arrest, the suspect was transferred to DSI investigators for further legal action.

The case has been classified as a Special Case by the Division of Security Cases, reflecting growing concern among authorities over the use of nominee structures to circumvent restrictions on foreign business ownership.

Officials said such arrangements undermine Thailand’s economic system and violate laws intended to regulate foreign participation in protected industries.

The DSI confirmed that the suspect is scheduled to be transferred to the Office of the Special Case Prosecutor on July 9, 2026, for formal prosecution.