Politics
Thai Interior Ministry Investigates Over 100 Phuket Businesses Linked to Nominee Networks
Deputy Interior Minister Polphee Suwannachwee has launched a probe into more than 100 companies in Phuket suspected of operating through illegal nominee structures.
On August 7, 2026, Deputy Interior Minister Polphee Suwannachwee announced an investigation into over 100 businesses in Phuket, following a confrontation with an Israeli national during an inspection in Patong on July 25. According to Khaosod Online, the Ministry suspects these entities are operating through illegal nominee networks, with financial transactions estimated to exceed 5 billion baht over the past year.
Polphee stated that the investigation revealed a complex web involving both Thai shareholders and Israeli nationals who have obtained Thai citizenship. The businesses under scrutiny range from car rental services to tour operations, with authorities suspecting the involvement of 'zero-dollar' tourism schemes. The Ministry has ordered the Department of Provincial Administration to conduct a thorough audit of financial trails and pursue legal action against those found in violation of business regulations.
For residents and travelers, this crackdown signifies a potential shift in the oversight of foreign-owned businesses in major tourist hubs. While the Ministry intends to expand these inspections to other islands and regions, the full extent of the nominee network and the specific legal outcomes for the companies involved remain to be confirmed. Authorities are currently focused on tracing financial flows to determine the legitimacy of these operations.