The inspection was carried out at Patong Beach at about 3pm yesterday (May 6) by officials from Patong Municipality, Kathu District Office and Patong Police as part of ongoing efforts to regulate public space usage and maintain order at the popular tourist beach.
Patong Mayor Lalita Maneesri assigned municipal law enforcement officers to inspect and manage beach umbrellas and chairs found outside designated operating zones.
The operation was conducted jointly with a Kathu District working group led by Kathu District Chief Akkarapol Sutthirak Jitsupap, alongside Deputy District Chief for Security Affairs Anurak Poolsak, members of the Volunteer Defence Corps (OrSor), Patong Municipality officers and Patong Police.
Officials said seven people were arrested for placing umbrellas and beach chairs outside approved areas on the beach.
Patong Municipality filed charges against the offenders, confiscated 37 chairs as evidence and imposed fines under relevant laws and municipal regulations.
Authorities said operators working within the designated beach zones were also instructed to strictly comply with all applicable laws and regulations, including restrictions relating to the sale of alcohol on the beach.
Officials explained that the continued enforcement campaign is aimed at maintaining orderliness, ensuring public safety and convenience for tourists and beachgoers, and preserving the cleanliness and appearance of Patong Beach.
The latest operation follows a series of recent crackdowns by authorities targeting illegal activities and encroachment along the beachfront.
Last week, authorities arrested a group of unauthorised donation collectors operating along Patong Beach during a joint operation by Patong Municipality and Patong Police.
Earlier, on Apr 28, another multi-agency inspection led by Kathu District Office resulted in three operators being fined for placing tables, umbrellas and chairs outside designated zones. During that operation, officials seized 65 umbrellas, 42 chairs and 36 tables.
Officials from both Patong Municipality and Kathu District Office have warned that further violations involving encroachment on public beach areas or other unauthorised activities will face strict legal action as authorities continue efforts to protect Patong’s tourism image.