Chiang mai: Tourist police are bolstering their international networks in an effort to intercept nominees and foreigners engaging in illegal acts, with the goal of enhancing security and building confidence among tourists.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Maj. Gen. Pongsiayam Meekhantong, Deputy Commander of the Tourist Police, announced that after a meeting on June 12th, aimed at establishing a collaborative network to combat illegal business activities involving Thai nationals as nominees in the tourism industry, the Tourist Police have expanded cooperation with consular representatives and foreign volunteer networks. This initiative is in response to reports of foreign nationals committing offenses in Chiang Mai and aligns with government and Royal Thai Police policies, building on operations conducted in Pattaya, Chonburi Province, on May 18th, 2026.
The meeting, held at the meeting room of the Tourist Police Division 1, Sub-division 2, Tourist Police Bureau 2, in Chiang Mai Province, was attended by representatives from the consulates of nine countries, including the United States, the People's Republic of China, Japan, India, the United Kingdom, the Republic of Korea, Canada, Germany, and Israel, as well as a network of foreign volunteers from 10 countries. They shared information and coordinated efforts to prevent and suppress crimes that threaten tourist safety and the image of Thai tourism.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Pongsiayam emphasized the complexity of transnational crime and offenses involving foreigners, such as business operations using Thai nationals as nominees, scams, drug networks, and other illegal activities that undermine safety and confidence in tourism. He highlighted the necessity of cooperation among law enforcement agencies, embassies, consulates, and foreign networks to effectively monitor, exchange information, and resolve issues.
He further explained that transnational crime is a borderless threat, requiring international cooperation and proactive efforts by the Tourist Police. By integrating information and maintaining close coordination, the effectiveness of crime prevention and suppression can be enhanced, ensuring tourist safety and confidence. This is vital for maintaining the country's image and supporting sustainable tourism economic growth.
The meeting analyzed tourist statistics and crime trends in Chiang Mai province to assess the situation and determine preventive measures aligned with evolving crime patterns and risks. It also outlined collaborative strategies on key public concerns, including combating scammers and transnational crime, preventing Thailand from being used as a transit point for illegal employment, intercepting foreign businesses using Thai nominees, and addressing visa overstays and illegal immigration.
Additionally, the meeting focused on establishing a network for reporting offenses committed by foreigners, enabling faster and more effective prevention and resolution of issues. Discussions addressed safety and tourism image concerns, such as illegal cannabis use, tourist overcharging, exploitation by interpreters, unlicensed driving, disrespectful behavior towards Thai law, and theft. Emphasis was placed on fostering cooperation, educating tourists on relevant laws, and developing coordination channels between the Tourist Police and international networks to enhance tourism safety standards in Thailand.
Looking forward, the Tourist Police plan to continue their proactive approach, strengthening cooperation with embassies, consulates, and international partners to prevent and suppress all forms of crime. This will build confidence in tourist safety and security, support government economic growth policies, and promote Thailand as a high-quality, safe, and internationally recognized tourist destination, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of the Thai tourism industry and contributing to the country's stable and sustainable economic growth.