ISOC tightens Phuket security crackdown

Senior Thai security and provincial officials met in Phuket to coordinate stricter enforcement efforts across the island, with the agenda focused on drugs, illegal immigration, transnational crime and alleged illegal land use.

The meeting brought together Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn, Deputy Governor Adul Chuthong, Phuket Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Sinlert Sukhum, Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation President Rewat Areerob and representatives from multiple government agencies.

Officials reviewed Phuket’s overall security situation and said the issues under discussion were affecting the province’s security, economy and tourism image, making coordinated enforcement a priority. The meeting focused on drug prevention and suppression, management of public spaces, illegal immigration, transnational crime, natural resource encroachment and concerns over foreign land ownership through nominee arrangements.

Authorities said anti-drug operations during the 2026 fiscal year had uncovered attempts to smuggle narcotics into Phuket through private transport and delivery services. They said several major arrests and drug seizures had already been made through joint operations involving police, military, administrative officers and security agencies.

Officials also received updates on investigations into encroachment on beaches, forests and public land in key tourism areas including Bang Tao Beach, Freedom Beach and Nui Beach. Several cases remain under legal proceedings, while authorities continue to investigate land ownership documents, business operations involving foreigners and alleged nominee arrangements.

Government agencies including forestry officials, maritime authorities, police and administrative officers were ordered to continue working together to speed up investigations and enforce the law against illegal land use and natural resource encroachment.

Lt Gen Norathip said the government had elevated security threats, natural resource violations and issues involving foreign nationals to top-priority national concerns. He said agencies must cooperate closely and ensure accurate public communication to counter misinformation on social media.

“The protection of national resources, the rights of citizens and public confidence in government administration are crucial,” he said.

The visit followed earlier inspections and meetings in Phuket led by Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul aimed at accelerating solutions to local security and land management problems. Officials ended the meeting by reaffirming their commitment to maintaining peace and order while supporting Phuket’s long-term development as a safe and sustainable tourism destination.