Allegedly Illegal Hotel Run by Russian Raided in Patong

*Allegedly Illegal Hotel Run by Russian Raided in Patong — confirmed details at this stage for Phuket readers.*

Published: 2026-03-14 16:35 UTC Event date: 2026-03-13

A large hotel in Patong was raided on Wednesday afternoon by Phuket provincial authorities, who allege the property was being operated illegally by a Russian national using Thai nominees as a front. The operation, which took place at 4:00 p.m. on Phang Muang Sai Kor Road in Kathu District, was led by Governor Nirut Phongsithithavorn, Deputy Governor Adul Chuthong, Provincial Secretary Rungreung Thimabut, and Provincial Defense Chief Danai Suksakul, with support from a special task force, local police, and other agencies.

The raid followed complaints from local residents that foreign investors were secretly running hotel businesses in one of Phuket's busiest tourist areas. According to officials, the hotel was operating without a valid license and was not properly registered with local authorities. Investigators determined that a Russian national was the true owner and operator, having used Thai nationals as nominees to lease the property and appear as managers on official documents.

The hotel, which features 83 rooms, was actively promoted on major international booking platforms, targeting foreign tourists visiting the island. Authorities say the operation of unlicensed hotels undermines local businesses, poses safety risks to guests, and can damage Phuket's reputation as a leading tourist destination.

Provincial Secretary Rungreung Thimabut stated that the crackdown is part of a broader campaign to protect Thai livelihoods and maintain the integrity of the island's tourism sector. "We are determined to ensure that hotel businesses operate legally and transparently, for the benefit of both residents and visitors," he said.

Following the raid, authorities arrested individuals connected to the hotel and filed charges for operating a hotel without proper authorization. The case has now been expanded to investigate the nominee arrangements, which could result in criminal prosecution, administrative penalties, and possible deregistration of the company if concealed foreign ownership is confirmed.

Officials have not released the name of the hotel, citing the ongoing investigation and the need to verify the identities of owners and potential nominees. Residents and local business owners have welcomed the increased enforcement, noting that illegal hotels can drive down prices and reduce opportunities for legitimate operators.

Phuket authorities plan to continue their campaign against unlicensed hotels and nominee arrangements, with further inspections expected in the coming weeks. Tourists and residents are encouraged to report suspected illegal hotel operations to local officials as efforts to safeguard the island's tourism industry continue.

Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/03/13/allegedly-illegal-hotel-run-by-russian-raided-in-patong/