Patong beach crackdown targets donation scammers and illegal vendors
The arrests were made on Friday (May 1) during a joint operation led by Patong Municipality and Patong Police, targeting individuals soliciting donations without official permission.
Patong authorities in Phuket arrested people soliciting donations without permission during a joint operation on Friday, May 1, as officials widened enforcement on Patong Beach. Patong Municipality said the beach crackdown was led with Patong Police under orders from Mayor Lalita Maneesri, with suspects detained, items used in the scheme seized and fines to follow.
Officials said the unauthorised fundraising breached local regulations and conflicted with efforts to maintain transparency and public safety in beach areas.
Apr. 28 operation seized 65 umbrellas, 42 chairs and 36 tables
A separate multi-agency inspection on Apr. 28 focused on vendors encroaching on restricted zones along Patong Beach. The operation was led by the Kathu District Office under the direction of Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthiwat, Deputy Governor Adul Chuthong and district officials, according to the district office.
Officers found operators placing tables, chairs and umbrellas outside designated areas in violation of zoning rules. Three offenders were fined, and officials confiscated 65 umbrellas, 42 chairs and 36 tables.
Authorities said both actions form part of a broader campaign to enforce regulations, restore order on the beach and ensure public space is used fairly. Patong and Kathu District officials warned that further violations involving illegal fundraising or encroachment on public land will face strict legal action.
Source: https://www.thephuketnews.com/donation-scammers-illegal-beach-vendors-targeted-at-patong-beach-100109.php
