Russian guide arrested in Phang Nga for working without a license

On May 21, the tourist police of Phang Nga province arrested a Russian citizen on charges of illegally working as a tour guide. The arrest took place in the parking lot of the Phang Nga Wildlife Breeding Station after staff at Suwan Kuha Temple noticed the man conducting a tour for foreign tourists. According to authorities, temple staff observed the Russian citizen providing information and assistance to foreign visitors, accompanying them around the premises. They then notified the tourist police, who intercepted the tour group at the wildlife breeding station. Police reported that the suspect was traveling in a van with ten foreign tourists. During a search of the suspect and the vehicle, documents related to performing guide duties were found. Investigators confirmed that the Russian citizen worked for an officially registered travel agency. However, he did not have a valid work permit or a licensed guide certificate. The Department of Tourism stated that the suspect has been charged under Sections 49 and 86 of the Tourist Business and Guide Act for working as a guide without permission. This offense carries a penalty of imprisonment for up to one year, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both. The Russian citizen has also been charged with working without a permit and engaging in a profession reserved for Thai nationals. Authorities added that the tour agency involved in the case could be fined up to 500,000 baht for allowing tourists to travel without a licensed Thai guide. Earlier this month, in a similar case, Phuket police arrested another Russian citizen accused of illegally conducting fishing tours for foreign tourists. Investigators reported that he admitted to promoting and organizing tours via the Telegram app without permission. In January, another Russian guide was arrested at a Phuket pier while escorting tourists to a boat. Police said he later admitted to working illegally and serving mostly Russian visitors. For readers: Foreigners are prohibited from working as tour guides in Thailand; this profession is reserved for Thai citizens.