Police step up nominee holding case

The Royal Thai Police are intensifying investigations into alleged nominee land holdings by foreigners on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan in Surat Thani, a practice that may threaten economic security, especially in key tourist areas.

- SUPAPONG CHAOLAN

Pol Lt Gen Yingyos Thepjamnong, assistant commissioner, said authorities are working closely with Surat Thani provincial officials, the Land Department, the Department of Business Development and security agencies to scrutinise the cases.

Preliminary findings indicate some Israeli nationals on the islands face multiple charges, including operating car rental businesses, working without permits and conducting tour operations without authorisation.