Phuket police chief says no mafia groups or ransom cases found

Phuket police found no evidence of mafia groups or ransom demands on the island, Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Sinlert Sukhum said on May 6, 2026, while addressing recent claims about organized crime. He said all criminal cases involving foreign suspects had been handled and every offender had been arrested.

Commander challenges use of 'mafia' label

Sinlert questioned what people meant by the word “mafia,” saying police had not identified any criminal network operating in that form in Phuket.

He said officers had also not received reports of ransom-style extortion or demands for payment tied to abduction or coercion.

The commander said crimes committed by foreigners did occur, but described them as ordinary criminal cases rather than organized syndicate activity.

He added that police had taken action in every case and that all suspects involved had already been arrested.

Source: https://www.matichon.co.th/region/news_5706584