Phuket Launches Island-Wide Crackdown on Illegal Foreign Workers, 39 Violations Found

Authorities in Phuket have begun a large-scale operation targeting illegal immigration and unauthorized employment, launching what officials describe as a province-wide "X-ray" inspection campaign.

The initiative is being coordinated by Deputy Governor Khetarat Chansilp, Phuket Provincial Police Commander Pol. Maj. Gen. Sinlert Sukhum, and ISOC Phuket Deputy Director Rear Adm. Praphan Srivipa. The campaign focuses on identifying illegal workers, dismantling nominee business networks, and protecting occupations reserved for Thai citizens.

During the first day of inspections, officials screened more than 2,000 foreign nationals working across the island, including employees from several South Asian countries. Authorities reported 39 violations involving illegal employment and immigration-related offenses.

Inspection teams were also deployed to Malin Plaza, SB Night Market, and Patong Beach after receiving complaints from local residents about foreigners allegedly selling goods in areas reserved for Thai vendors.

However, when officers arrived, many stalls were closed and the suspected vendors had already left. Most of the remaining sellers were confirmed to be Thai nationals. Officials stated that foreigners found violating labor regulations were detained and face legal action.

The operation also included inspections of construction projects. On June 23, authorities raided a construction site in Chalong, where they arrested 18 Chinese nationals and four Myanmar workers.

Investigators said the project raised concerns because Chinese engineers were overseeing construction while many of the building materials had also been imported from China. Officials are examining whether the site is part of a suspected "Coin Center Construction" model, in which projects are allegedly operated almost entirely with Chinese personnel and resources through nominee business structures.

Deputy Governor Khetarat said the inspections are part of the broader "Phuket Model," a strategy aimed at strengthening enforcement of labor and immigration laws across every district on the island.

"We will conduct inspections in every district and under every police jurisdiction. Our objective is to eliminate illegal activities while protecting employment opportunities for Thai citizens," he said.

Police Commander Sinlert noted that Phuket is home to approximately 140,000 migrant workers. Since October 2025, authorities have arrested more than 2,000 foreign nationals for offenses including illegal employment, immigration violations, drug-related crimes, and traffic offenses.

He emphasized that enforcement will continue on a daily basis rather than as a one-time campaign, while stressing that foreigners holding valid work permits and complying with Thai law have nothing to fear.

Officials also encouraged residents to report suspected illegal activities, promising prompt investigations and continued enforcement efforts to ensure fair competition and compliance with Thai labor laws.