Patong nightlife operators protest alleged extortion and license delays
Owners, employees and operators of entertainment venues gathered on Bangla Rd in Patong at about 7pm, holding signs reading ‘No Bribes’, ‘Stop Extorting the People’ and ‘Prime Minister Anutin, Help the People of Phuket…
Entertainment venue owners, employees and operators gathered on Bangla Rd in Patong at about 7pm on May 14 to protest alleged extortion and long delays in obtaining licences in Phuket. Protesters held signs reading “No Bribes,” “Stop Extorting the People” and “Prime Minister Anutin, Help the People of Phuket from Greedy Officials,” as they called for a fairer approval process.
The demonstration was led by Patong Entertainment Business Association President Weerawit Kreuasombat, who said many businesses had spent years seeking the correct permits. He said operators had submitted applications and paid required fees but were still waiting for approvals.
Operators cite zoning and licensing obstacles
Weerawit said most venues wanted to comply fully with the law, particularly after the government policy allowing entertainment venues in tourism areas to operate until 4am.
He said many businesses had received only proof of application or were still waiting after many years, leaving them exposed to inspections and pressure from some officials seeking bribes.
Licensing problems were most severe outside officially designated entertainment zones, including Nanai Rd, where many venues have operated for more than 20 years.
He urged the government to review zoning rules to match current conditions in Patong so long-established businesses could operate legally.
Protest follows PM’s anti-mafia pledge in Phuket
Weerawit warned that strict enforcement without fixing licensing and zoning issues could harm the economy, affect tourism and leave some areas deserted.
He acknowledged that not every venue was fully compliant, but said entertainment businesses remained a major driver of Patong’s tourism trade and supported large numbers of workers.
Operators said the gathering was peaceful and was intended to highlight industry problems while pressing authorities to create a transparent licensing system.
The protest came hours after Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited Phuket and vowed to crack down on influential figures and mafia-style operators accused of using threats and violence to control lucrative tourism businesses, without mentioning corrupt officials who may be involved.
Source: https://www.thephuketnews.com/patong-nightlife-operators-protest-extortion-licensing-delays-100229.php
