Authorities warn Arab family after begging report in Patong
Phuket – Local authorities in Phuket conducted a late-night inspection in Patong following reports of foreign nationals using young children to solicit money from tourists. The Phuket Provincial Social Development and…
Phuket authorities carried out a late-night inspection in Patong on May 1 after reports that foreign nationals were using young children to solicit money in busy tourist areas. Officials confirmed a foreign Arab family had been walking through restaurants and hotels in Patong asking people for money, following allegations raised in a social media post.
The Phuket Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office said the inspection was launched after online claims that foreign families were bringing children to beg. Officers documented the activity with photographs and video recordings as evidence.
Woman with child formally warned under child welfare process
During the operation, authorities encountered a woman with a child who was reportedly engaged in begging behavior. Staff from the Phuket Shelter for Children and Families spoke with her, explained relevant laws and issued a formal warning.
Officials also recorded a statement to help prevent a repeat incident. They said further monitoring would continue and that assistance measures would be pursued under Thailand’s Child Protection Act.
Authorities said child welfare remains the priority in cases involving minors in public solicitation. They said measures would be taken to protect children from exploitation in tourist areas.
Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/05/01/authorities-intervene-as-arabian-family-found-begging-in-patong/
