The 12 guides arrested were mostly working without guide identification cards or were providing services outside of those authorized, said Phuket Tourism and Sport Director, Mr Santi Pawai.
A total of 2,629 guides identified themselves at the Phuket Tourism and Sport Office between September 22 and October 6.
Last Monday was the last chance for registered guides to identify themselves, so they can be put into categories based on their specific skills such as diving, trekking and local culture, warned the director.
“We are providing registered guides with coloured identification cards depending on their speciality," said Mr Santi.
Silver card holders, for example, are authorized to service only foreign tourists while gold card holders can provide services only to Thai tourists,” Mr Santi explained.
“I would like to warn anyone thinking of working illegally as a guide – especially in high season – that they will be banned for life if they are caught,” said Mr Santi.
Meanwhile, on a positive note, the director said the tourism authority aims to recruit 200 volunteer guides to help out during the upcoming Asian Beach Games in November.
“The volunteers can be Thais or foreigners,” said Mr Santi.
“The volunteers will help give advice and information to tourists as well as co-operating with police,” he said.
“The volunteers won't be paid but they will receive shirts, food, caps and identification cards. We really need people who genuinely want to help tourists,” he said.
Guides interested in volunteering can apply at the Phuket Tourism and Sport Office located next to Surakul Stadium between now and October 15 on weekdays from 8am to 5pm.