Patong Beach umbrella and chair crackdown nets 7 arrests
The inspection was carried out at Patong Beach at about 3pm yesterday (May 6) by officials from Patong Municipality, Kathu District Office and Patong Police as part of ongoing efforts to regulate public space usage and…
Seven people were arrested during a Patong Beach crackdown at about 3pm on May 6, as officials intensified enforcement against illegal umbrellas and chairs in Phuket. The joint inspection by Patong Municipality, Kathu District Office and Patong Police targeted operators placing beach equipment outside designated zones, with 37 chairs confiscated as evidence, officials said.
Mayor Lalita Maneesri assigned municipal law enforcement officers to inspect and manage umbrellas and chairs found beyond approved operating areas.
The operation also involved a Kathu District working group led by District Chief Akkarapol Sutthirak Jitsupap, Deputy District Chief for Security Affairs Anurak Poolsak, Volunteer Defence Corps members, municipal officers and police.
Operators warned over beach rules and alcohol restrictions
Patong Municipality filed charges against the seven offenders and said penalties were imposed under relevant laws and municipal regulations. Officials did not disclose the fine amounts.
Authorities also instructed operators working within designated beach zones to comply strictly with all applicable rules, including restrictions on alcohol sales on the beach.
Officials said the enforcement campaign is intended to maintain order, protect public safety and convenience, and preserve the cleanliness and appearance of Patong Beach.
Latest action follows earlier beachfront enforcement
The May 6 operation came after a series of recent crackdowns on encroachment and other unauthorized activity along the beachfront.
Last week, Patong Municipality and Patong Police arrested a group of unauthorized donation collectors operating along Patong Beach.
In another multi-agency inspection on April 28 led by the Kathu District Office, three operators were fined for placing tables, umbrellas and chairs outside designated zones.
During that earlier operation, officials seized 65 umbrellas, 42 chairs and 36 tables.
Officials from Patong Municipality and the Kathu District Office warned that further violations involving encroachment on public beach areas or other unauthorized activities would face strict legal action.
Source: https://www.thephuketnews.com/patong-beach-crackdown-on-illegal-umbrellas-chairs-continues-100143.php
