Russian man arrested in Chalong over illegal fishing tour operation
The arrest was carried out today (May 6) following a month-long undercover investigation led by Phuket Tourist Police in cooperation with the Tourist Business and Guide Registration Office under the Department of…
A Russian man was arrested in Chalong on May 6 after Phuket Tourist Police said he was caught leading an illegal fishing tour in Chalong Bay. The arrest followed a month-long undercover investigation into foreigners advertising and selling tour packages through Telegram in Phuket, including a fishing trip offered at B3,000 per person.
Police said officers moved in after an undercover officer posed as a customer and booked the trip. The suspect was arrested at sea while acting as a tour guide for a group of six foreign tourists.
Undercover probe began with 1155 hotline tip
Phuket Tourist Police Chief Pol Lt Col Ekachai Siri said the case began when officers received a report through the 1155 Tourist Police hotline. The information alleged that a group of foreigners was using Telegram to market tour packages.
Investigators then infiltrated the group and gathered evidence over the course of a month. The operation was carried out with the Tourist Business and Guide Registration Office under the Department of Tourism.
Charges include illegal tour operation and unauthorized guide work
Authorities said the man faces charges of operating a tour business without a licence and working as a tour guide without authorization under the Tour Business and Tour Guide Act.
He is also accused of working outside the scope of his permitted employment under the Alien Employment Act. Police said the offences carry penalties of up to two years in prison and fines of up to B500,000, depending on the charge.
Phuket Tourist Police said the operation was ordered under a nationwide push by Tourist Police Commander Pol Lt Gen Saksira Puek-am targeting foreigners working in jobs reserved for Thai nationals. After legal proceedings conclude, officers will seek revocation of the suspect’s permission to stay in Thailand and proceed with deportation.
Source: https://www.thephuketnews.com/russian-arrested-in-chalong-for-illegal-fishing-tours-100133.php
