Officers from the Tourist Police carried out the inspection after images circulating on social media showed tourists appearing nude on a public beach in Rawai.
According to a report issued at 1pm by Tourist Police Station 1, Division 2, Tourist Police Bureau 3 (Phuket–Phang Nga), the investigation was ordered by Pol Maj Ekachai Siri, chief of Tourist Police Station 1.
Tourist Police patrol officers conducted the inspection in cooperation with Rawai Municipality, led by Rawai Mayor Thames Kraithat.
Officials confirmed the incident took place at a small beach about 100 metres long and relatively secluded, requiring a walk of about 200 metres from the nearest road.
At the time of the incident, officers reported that about 20 tourists were swimming in the area.
Following the inspection, Tourist Police coordinated with Rawai Municipality to increase patrols in beach and tourist areas in line with the governor’s policy.
Authorities have also begun installing multilingual signs clearly informing tourists about rules and prohibitions governing behaviour in public areas, including bans on nudity.
Officers have been warning and advising tourists about Thai laws and appropriate conduct when using public spaces.
The crackdown follows a directive issued by Governor Nirat on Thursday (Mar 5) instructing authorities to step up enforcement and public awareness measures after incidents of tourists appearing nude in public areas on Phuket’s beaches.
Under the policy, law enforcement agencies and local administrative organisations have been tasked with increasing patrols, installing multilingual warning signs and improving communication with visitors about Thai laws and cultural expectations.
Officials are also seeking cooperation from embassies, consulates, hotels, tour companies and tourism-related businesses to help inform visitors about appropriate behaviour while travelling in Phuket.