Patong entertainment operators rally over extortion, licensing delays

Entertainment venue operators and staff gathered near Bangla Police Box at the entrance to Bangla Soi in Patong, Phuket, on May 13 to oppose alleged extortion and benefit demands by state officials. Led by Patong Beach Entertainment Venue Operators Club president Weerawit Kruasombat, the group also called for faster action on business license applications and what they described as fair treatment for operators.

Some protesters held signs reading, “Anutin, help Phuket people from money-hungry officials,” “Patong entertainment workers reject officials extorting money from the public,” “What is 1 kilo? We reject protection money,” and “Do not burden the grassroots.” They also used a public speaking stage to outline problems affecting nightlife businesses in the area.

Operators cite 4am rules, 1-year waits and zoning barriers

Weerawit said operators want the state to resolve licensing problems after the government allowed entertainment venues to stay open until 4am. He said many venues still face difficulty renewing permits even after filing applications and paying required fees.

According to Weerawit, some businesses have waited more than one year for approval and were later raided or arrested, which operators view as unfair. He also pointed to Na Nai Soi as an example of an area outside the legal zoning map despite having operated as a business and service district for 20 to 30 years.

The prime minister was in Phuket during the gathering to follow up on the Freedom Beach public land encroachment issue. Protesters had hoped his motorcade would pass the rally site on the return trip, but it took a different route.

He said the rally was peaceful, did not target any specific official, and sought clarification and dialogue rather than searches or closure orders alone.

Source: https://www.dailynews.co.th/news/5859497/