Russian Tour Guide Arrested in Phang Nga for Operating Without a License
A Russian national was arrested in Phang Nga, Thailand, for illegally working as a tour guide without a valid license or work permit. Police intercepted him leading a group of foreign tourists after observing his activities at Suwan Kuha Temple. He faces charges under the Tourism Business and Tour Guide Act, which could result in imprisonment and fines. The travel agency involved may also incur substantial penalties for allowing unlicensed guides to operate.
Thai Tourist Police in Phang Nga arrested a Russian national on May 21st for illegally working as a tour guide while accompanying a group of foreign tourists. The suspect, whose identity remains undisclosed, was apprehended at the car park of the Phang Nga Wildlife Breeding Station. This followed observations by officials who saw him guiding tourists at Suwan Kuha Temple.
According to authorities, temple staff noticed the Russian man providing information and assistance to foreign visitors while escorting them around the site. Officials then alerted tourist police, who intercepted the tour group at the wildlife breeding station. Police reported that the suspect was traveling in a van with 10 foreign tourists. During searches of both the suspect and the vehicle, officers reportedly discovered documents related to tour guide duties in his possession.
Investigators later confirmed that the Russian national was employed by a legally registered travel agency. However, authorities stated that he did not possess either a valid work permit or a licensed tour guide certificate. The Department of Tourism indicated that the suspect was charged under Sections 49 and 86 of the Tourism Business and Tour Guide Act for working as a tour guide without proper authorization. This offense carries potential penalties of up to one year in prison, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both. The Russian national also faces additional charges related to working without a permit and engaging in an occupation reserved for Thai nationals.
Authorities further noted that the involved travel agency could face fines of up to 500,000 baht for allowing tourists to travel without a licensed Thai tour guide. This incident follows a similar case earlier this month, where police in Phuket arrested another Russian national accused of illegally leading fishing tours for foreign tourists. Investigators stated he admitted to promoting and operating these tours via the Telegram application without proper authorization.