4 Russians From Phuket Arrested on Koh Samui in Illegal Electrician Jobs
Surat Thani – Immigration officers in Surat Thani have arrested four Russian nationals from Phuket for illegally working as electricians and construction workers on the island. The arrests are part of a nationwide…
Immigration officers arrested four Russian nationals from Phuket on Koh Samui on May 7, 2026, for allegedly working illegally as electricians and construction workers at a Chaweng building being converted into a karaoke bar and nightclub. Surat Thani immigration police said the case was part of a wider crackdown on unauthorized foreign labor and nominee businesses that violate Thai labor and economic laws.
Investigators tracked the group for several days before moving in after seeing one suspect outside the site, according to Immigration Division 6 commander Pol. Maj. Gen. Chutharet Yingyongdamrongsakul.
Inside, officers found all four men wiring electrical systems, installing sound and lighting equipment, and setting up control panels. Police also seized tools and wiring equipment as evidence.
Visa overstays and restricted work allegations
Two of the four men had overstayed their visas by three months, officials said. The other two held work permits, but police said they were doing jobs reserved for Thai nationals.
Authorities said all four were employees of a Phuket-based company and had traveled to Koh Samui to work for fellow Russians operating the entertainment venue. The suspects were charged with illegal employment and visa violations.
Police said the four men will be prosecuted before deportation.
Company faces nominee business investigation
Authorities said the venue was linked to Russian business interests. Officials also announced an investigation into the company employing the men for possible nominee business practices.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Chutharet said the arrests followed government policy under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and National Police Chief Pol.
Gen. Kittirat Phanphet to suppress transnational crime and protect Thai livelihoods. He said foreigners living in Thailand must comply with the law or face legal action.
Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/05/07/russians-from-phuket-arrested-for-illegal-work-as-electricians-on-koh-samui/
