Thai officials target illegal hotels on Koh Phangan, widen nominee probe
Thai officials target illegal hotels on Koh Phangan, widen nominee probe — confirmed details at this stage for Phuket readers.
Thailand’s Department of Provincial Administration moved against illegal hotels on Koh Phangan on May 9, 2026, while expanding an investigation into suspected nominee ownership structures. The enforcement action, announced as part of a wider crackdown, adds pressure on unlicensed accommodation operators in the southern island market linked to Phuket and other resort provinces.
Probe expands beyond unlicensed hotel operations
Officials said the operation is not limited to hotel licensing violations and now includes scrutiny of possible nominee arrangements used to hold businesses.
That broader investigation points to ownership and control questions behind some accommodation operators, rather than only day-to-day hotel compliance.
The department identified Koh Phangan as the focus of the latest action under its push against illegal hotels.
Authorities said the case has now widened, with investigators examining whether Thai nominee structures were used in connection with the businesses under review.
The source material did not provide figures for the number of properties targeted, arrests, room counts, or financial penalties. It also did not specify the names of operators under investigation or detail any charges filed.
Source: https://www.matichon.co.th/region/news_5710762
