Three unlicensed hotels raided in Phuket’s Karon and Rawai areas

Special operations officers from Thailand’s Department of Provincial Administration raided three large accommodation businesses in Phuket’s Karon and Rawai areas and arrested the people responsible for allegedly operating hotels without licenses.

The department said the action targeted three establishments in Mueang Phuket district that had been openly taking room bookings and providing hotel-style services despite lacking hotel business licenses required under the Hotel Act of 2004.

Authorities said the raids followed an investigation by the department’s special operations unit after officials received information about a number of illegal accommodation businesses in Phuket. After gathering evidence and monitoring the targeted operators, officers inspected all three properties at the same time.

During the operation, officials said they found clear evidence of unlicensed hotel operations. They seized booking documents, service records and other related evidence before handing the suspects over to investigators for legal proceedings.

The operation was carried out under an Interior Ministry policy focused on social order, anti-corruption efforts and action against illegal influence networks. The Department of Provincial Administration said the crackdown was intended to protect fair competition for lawful operators and disrupt unlawful financial interests.

According to the department, illegal hotel businesses harm the economy by undercutting operators that pay taxes and comply with the law. Officials also said unlicensed accommodation often fails to meet state safety standards, creating risks for tourists’ lives and property and potentially damaging confidence in Thailand’s tourism image.

The department said it would continue strict action against illegal hotels, particularly in major tourism provinces.