Phuket inspects nine rental businesses in nominee crackdown
Officials inspected nine rental businesses in Karon on 17 August as Phuket intensified checks on suspected nominee arrangements involving foreign owners.
Phuket officials inspected nine rental businesses in Karon on 17 August as authorities intensified enforcement against suspected nominee-operated businesses in the tourism sector.
The inspection was led by Deputy Governor Pol. Lt. Col. Khetarat Chansilp, acting as a security adviser to the Ministry of Interior. Police investigators, traffic officers, provincial employment officials and administrative staff also took part.
The operation targeted businesses suspected of using Thai nationals as proxies for foreign owners. The source described the nine establishments inspected as car rental businesses, while the wider crackdown is focused on motorbike rental companies and other tourism-related operators.
Officials examined business operations, shareholder structures, financial records and investment sources. They also reminded operators to comply with Thai law and advise customers about safe driving and traffic regulations.
Phuket’s administration said similar inspections would continue in other high-risk sectors. Authorities said evidence of nominee activity or other unlawful conduct would result in legal action.
