The vendors complained they were being unfairly targeted by police.
They said their shops in Kata and Karon were being raided almost daily, while stores selling pirated goods in Patong and elsewhere on the island were operating freely.
They also expressed concerns about corruption in the police force.
When it was discovered the Commander of Phuket Provincial Police, Pol Maj Gen Pekad Tantipong, was away in Surat Thani province, the vendors shifted their protest to Phuket Provincial Hall, attempting to talk to Phuket Governor Tri Augkaradacha.
Phuket vice governor Weerawat Janpen eventually received the complaint, and vowed to discuss the issue with Gen Pekad when he returns to Phuket.
- Photo by Boonrat Apiwantanakorn


