MP raises alarm over alleged use of Phuket rentals by Indian scam groups
Chaichana Dechdecho said groups of Indian nationals were allegedly renting properties in Phuket and Krabi for scam operations, calling for closer monitoring by police and immigration authorities.
Democrat Party deputy leader and MP Chaichana Dechdecho has warned that groups of Indian nationals are allegedly renting houses and other accommodation in Phuket and Krabi to use as bases for scam operations.
Chaichana made the claim on 6 August 2026 during a visit to Phuket to monitor the work of Police Region 8. He was briefed by Acting Region 8 Police Commander Pol Lt Gen Surapong Thanomjit and other senior officials.
Chaichana said information from local networks indicated that the alleged activity was taking place in the Region 8 Police area. He urged police and immigration authorities to increase monitoring of foreign groups suspected of using Phuket and other Andaman provinces as bases for criminal activities, including scams, call centres and online gambling networks.
He also raised concerns about foreign investors allegedly using Thai nominees to register companies and hold assets in Thailand. Chaichana said groups from Russia, Israel, China and other countries might exploit gaps in Thai company and shareholding laws by using Thai nationals as shareholders or business owners while retaining effective control.
He called on relevant agencies, particularly the Department of Business Development, to strengthen scrutiny of company ownership structures and investigate who actually controls businesses. Chaichana said closer cooperation between Police Region 8, the Immigration Bureau and other security agencies was needed to address nominee arrangements and transnational crime.
