The force, comprising both police officers and government officials, were led by Patong Mayor Chalermlak Kedsab and Phuket Deputy Governer Chamroen Thipayapongthada.
The Phuket News was notified today by readers of raids taking place around Kalim Bay today.
Police confirmed that there were three raids there as part of many taking place today and yesterday (June 6).
UPDATE: In a subsequent interview, Kathu Police clarified that the 16 ranks initially reported were only the initial "survey" targets, but during their inspections they became aware of a total of 26 sites all of which were dismantled yesterday and today (June 6-7).
Kathu Police instructed Patong Municipality to inform them immediately of any other cases of "invasion of public space for personal/private benefit".