One operation, which began on Monday (May 19), saw Phuket Immigration officers, working with local agencies, arresting four foreigners for overstaying their legal stay in Thailand.
The four were named as ‘Mr Wisdom’, a Nigerian national, who had overstayed by 761 days; ‘Mr Davide’, an Italian national who overstayed by 236 days; ‘Mr Izuchukwu, also Nigerian, overstayed by 33 days; and ‘Mr Eireannach’, an Icelandic national who overstayed by 15 days.
All four were charged with violating Thailand’s Immigration Act B.E. 2522, specifically for remaining in the country after their permission to stay had expired.
They were taken into custody and informed of their rights before being handed over to investigative officers for further legal action, immigration officers said.
The crackdown is part of a broader policy to address crimes committed by foreigners, including employment violations under the Emergency Decree on the Management of Foreign Workers B.E. 2561 and business infractions under the Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542, Phuket Immigration explained.
Phuket Immigration Chief Pol Col Kriangkrai Ariyaying emphasised his officers’ ongoing commitment to maintaining public safety and order.
“Phuket Immigration is dedicated to tackling illegal activities involving foreigners to ensure the safety and confidence of residents and tourists alike,” he said.
The Immigration Bureau urged the public to report any suspected illegal activity involving foreigners to assist in preserving the safety and reputation of Phuket as a leading tourist destination.