Apparently that article is a "re-release". Although THE NATION released it August 6, 2023, the article itself clearly shows it was first published February 1, 2019.
I like this line from the article:
That chief is "Big Joke". Nearly 5 years later, nothing has changed for the visa agents and they are operating as usual.In October 2018, the then newly appointed immigration chief Surachate Hakpan vowed to crack down on visa agents who falsify documents for foreigners applying for visas and extensions of stay.
For those using visa agents simply for convenience, but are really fully qualified for the retirement visa, I suggest you start inconveniencing yourself and take care of your extensions personally at your immigration office. Using visa agents for retirement visa extensions, even legitimately, may become a problem if this time "Big Joke" gets his way.
For those using visa agents because there is no other way for you to get the retirement visa, you very well might end up facing a big problem, but I wouldn't start packing my bags just yet. Even if "Big Joke" does get his way, getting retirement visas for people with, shall we say "questionable" eligibility, is big business for these visa service companies. If there is a way to circumvent and get visas for people under such circumstances, believe me they'll figure it out. But if even visa service companies can't help you, now start packing your bags . . .