22 foreigners detained on Koh Phangan in operation against illegal activities

On the island of Phangan, Thai authorities conducted a large-scale operation resulting in the detention of 22 foreigners. This action is part of a broad campaign against illegal activities that began in May. The police of Surat Thani province completed the second phase of the operation, focused on foreign companies suspected of fraud. In addition to the arrests, more than 40 land plots with a total value exceeding 200 million baht were seized. The operation aims to uncover illegal schemes in oil extraction and transportation, as well as in legal and accounting firms and shell companies. During Saturday's raids, in which over 300 police officers participated, 39 new cases were opened and 45 arrest warrants were issued. The case of FB Properties Co Ltd, known as Yoga House, drew particular attention. An Israeli citizen was discovered there, who was allegedly the real owner, using Thai nominee shareholders. The company owned 8 land plots worth over 60 million baht and was allegedly running a hotel business without the necessary permits. The results of the operation were divided into two categories. The first category includes 32 companies identified as nominees, leading to the detention of 22 foreigners and the confiscation of 45 land plots. The second group includes 32 companies where the foreign ownership share allegedly exceeds the permissible limit. The problem with nominee owners on Phangan has escalated since 2024. Currently, more than 3,200 out of 4,761 foreign companies are registered on the island, with investors from Israel, France, and the United Kingdom leading. Police are also investigating the possible involvement of government officials in aiding criminals. Similar measures to combat illegal activities and protect the interests of local residents will be announced nationwide.