The arrests were made on Friday (May 1) during a joint operation led by Patong Municipality and Patong Police, targeting individuals soliciting donations without official permission.
The suspects were taken into custody and will face fines, while items used in the scheme were seized as evidence, Patong Municipality reported.
Patong Mayor Lalita Maneesri ordered the operation, assigning municipal officers to work alongside police in identifying and apprehending those conducting unauthorised fundraising activities along the beach.
Officials confirmed that such activities violate local regulations and undermine efforts to maintain transparency and public safety in tourist areas.
The crackdown forms part of a broader campaign by authorities to enforce regulations on Patong Beach.
Earlier in the week, on Apr 28, a separate multi-agency operation led by the Kathu District Office targeted vendors encroaching on restricted beach zones.
The inspection was carried out under the direction of Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn, alongside Deputy Governor Adul Chuthong and district officials, Kathu District Office reported.
Officers found multiple operators placing tables, chairs and umbrellas outside designated areas on Patong Beach, in violation of local zoning rules. As a result, three offenders were fined, and a total of 65 umbrellas, 42 chairs and 36 tables were confiscated.
Officials said the coordinated enforcement actions are part of ongoing efforts to bring order to Patong Beach, ensure fair use of public space, and protect the province’s tourism reputation.
Patong and Kathu District officials have both warned that further violations ‒ whether involving illegal fundraising or encroachment on public land ‒ will be met with strict legal action.