Crackdown on unruly tourists

[Gaybutton]

I'm all for this one. While the vast majority of foreigners in Thailand behave perfectly well, there are always a few who cause problems - and it is those few that get all the attention and result in a negative view of the rest of us. I, for one, take that very seriously. As far as I'm concerned, if you come to Thailand, break laws, and make problems while here, then out you go - and don't even think about coming back.

I don't like being viewed negatively because of the actions of others. And the more serious actions are what gets Thailand to continually make things tougher for perfectly innocent, law abiding people. What immediately comes to my mind is more difficult banking regulations, visa requirements, and more and more "Big Brother" trying to watch our every move.
_____________________________________________

Interior Ministry orders crackdown on unruly tourists

by THE NATION

May 9, 2026

The Interior Ministry has ordered provincial authorities nationwide to take firm action against unruly foreign tourists, warning that those who break the law, intimidate Thai citizens or behave inappropriately could have their visas revoked and be deported immediately.

Arsit Sampantharat, permanent secretary of the Interior Ministry, said on May 8, 2026, while carrying out duties in support of the 48th ASEAN Summit in the Philippines, that inappropriate behaviour by tourists in various provinces had affected Thailand’s tourism image and caused concern among residents in several areas.

Arsit said Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul had been closely following the issue and had instructed relevant agencies, including administrative officials, security agencies and tourism authorities, to promote understanding among business operators and tourists about Thai culture and the country’s way of life.

Anutin also ordered provincial governors and provincial police commanders nationwide to instruct local administrative officials, police and related agencies to enforce the law strictly and strengthen preventive measures against illegal conduct. If any legal violation is found, action must be taken decisively and without exception, Arsit said.

“Everything is already governed by law. No one can break the law, whether Thai or foreign,” Arsit said.

“Foreigners who enter Thailand cannot act like influential figures, do illegal things, bully the people of the host country, or behave in ways that go against Thailand’s morals, culture or traditions. And no one has powerful connections to clear things up, because the Interior Ministry and state officials at every level do not accept such arrangements.”

Reports from Surat Thani said Governor Chumphote Wannachatsiri had taken action over cases involving Israelis staying long term on Koh Phangan, Koh Samui and Koh Tao. Some were reportedly using tourist visas to work, while others were accused of inappropriate behaviour or activities.

Authorities are also investigating and cracking down on suspected nominee-style businesses, working with security agencies, immigration police and the provincial employment office to enforce the law strictly.

https://www.nationthailand.com/news/policy/40066002

[Dodger]

......“Everything is already governed by law. No one can break the law, whether Thai or foreign,” Arsit said.

[Gaybutton]

......“Everything is already governed by law. No one can break the law, whether Thai or foreign,” Arsit said.

I understand where you're coming from, but for me the point is when Thais commit crime and engage in all the other negatives we so often read about, that reflects on them. But I definitely don't like it when the actions of "bad" foreigners reflect on us and put us in a negative light. And that accounts for many, if not all, these rules, regulations, and hoops to we now have to jump through that we never had to worry about before, while some things have been closed off to us completely - such as ease of getting residence certificates . . .

And if you don't already have a Thai bank account, try getting one. And now "Big Brother" is going to make sure we don't owe any hospital bills before accepting our 90-day address reports. Why do you think that is?

Our behavior and actions didn't bring about any of this. The behavior and actions of a few schmuck foreigners resulted in this. And if Thailand wants to get rid of them permanently, as I said I'm all for it. And I hope they succeed at it before things become even more difficult for us than they already are.

Do I take that seriously? You're damned right I do.

[Jun]

35 million foreign visitors, most of whom are welcomed into Thailand and contribute a significant amount to Thai GDP. Plus all the expats.

I suspect the vast majority of crimes are committed by Thais, including those wearing uniforms.

Whilst cracking down on the worst cases of unruly tourist behaviour makes sense, efforts to do so would be much helped if they could rely on effective law enforcement, rather than tea money collection.

Also, for example, which type of offence causes the most damage ?
(a) A handful of tourists nude on some dark beach late at night.
(b) Reckless local drivers killing people trying to cross roads.

[Any before anyone says it, many farang quickly learn it's possible to ignore the rules on the roads as well]