Law
Authorities Raid Pattaya Sites Over Alleged Foreign Nominee Business Practices
Thai officials have launched a coordinated operation in Pattaya to investigate suspected illegal foreign business ownership and land holding through nominee structures.
On August 21, 2026, a joint task force led by Deputy Interior Minister Worasit Liangprasert and Justice Minister Lt. Gen. Ruttapol Naowarat conducted raids at three locations in Pattaya, Chonburi province. The operation, which involved the Department of Provincial Administration, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), and the Royal Thai Police, targeted networks suspected of using Thai nominees to hold land and operate businesses on behalf of foreign nationals, in potential violation of the Foreign Business Act of 1999.
According to Khaosod Online, the mission was executed under search warrants issued by the Criminal Court. Officials involved in the operation included the Deputy Director-General of the DSI, the Governor of Chonburi, and local security authorities. The government stated that the initiative aims to regulate social order and protect national interests.
For residents and visitors, this operation highlights an ongoing government focus on enforcing business ownership regulations in popular tourist hubs. While the raids signal a crackdown on illicit nominee structures, the specific identities of the entities involved and the final legal outcomes of the evidence seized remain to be confirmed by the ongoing investigation. Travelers and business owners should be aware that authorities are actively monitoring compliance with foreign business laws in the region.