Phuket police have intensified efforts to enforce immigration laws, resulting in the arrest of four foreigners for overstaying their visas. The crackdown, led by Police Lieutenant General Itthiphon Itthisanranchai, aimed to address violations of the Immigration Act of 1979 among foreign nationals residing in Thailand without valid permission.
During a sweep conducted on July 2 in high-risk areas known for housing foreigners in violation of immigration laws, authorities detained two Egyptians, one Pakistani, and one Russian. The individuals arrested include Mr. Mohamed, who overstayed by 1,898 days; Mr. Zubair, overstaying by 1,734 days; Mr. Haitham, overstaying by 234 days; and Mr. Dmitri, overstaying by 413 days.
All four have been charged with “entering and staying in the kingdom after the expiration of their permission,” and their cases have been transferred to investigators for further legal action.
Additionally, property owners found to have hosted foreigners without reporting them to authorities within 24 hours were fined under Section 38 of the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979). This regulation underscores the responsibility of property owners and occupants to notify authorities promptly, aiming to regulate and monitor the presence of foreigners in Phuket.
The Phuket Immigration Office stresses the importance of complying with Sections 37 and 38 of the Immigration Act 1979, highlighting these measures as essential for safeguarding tourists and locals alike. By ensuring compliance with these laws, authorities seek to maintain public safety and enhance visitor confidence in Phuket province.
For more details on the notification requirements under the Immigration Act, interested parties can visit the Immigration Bureau’s official website.
