Law
Authorities Launch Major Crackdown on Nominee Networks in Koh Samui
A joint operation involving over 300 officials has targeted 60 companies on Koh Samui suspected of operating as illegal nominee businesses for foreign nationals.
On August 15, 2026, Thai authorities launched the seventh phase of an operation titled 'Crushing Foreign Nominee Networks' on the island of Koh Samui. According to Thai Post, a task force of over 300 personnel—including representatives from the Ministry of Interior, the Royal Thai Police, the Department of Business Development, and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI)—conducted coordinated raids across the island.
The operation targeted 60 companies involved in various sectors, including nursery services, pool villa rentals, and visa-related businesses. Authorities have issued arrest warrants for 62 foreign nationals suspected of involvement in these illicit nominee structures, which are used to circumvent Thai laws regarding foreign business ownership.
For residents and travelers, this crackdown highlights the government's ongoing commitment to enforcing business regulations and immigration laws. While the operation focuses on corporate compliance, it underscores the importance of ensuring that any services or property rentals are conducted through legally registered entities. At this stage, the full extent of the impact on existing business operations remains to be confirmed, as investigations are ongoing. Travelers and residents are advised to remain aware of the legal status of the businesses they engage with, as further enforcement actions may follow as the investigation into these 60 companies proceeds.