Bangkok: The administration has conducted inspections in the Pratunam area, targeting condo units that are being rented out illegally on a daily basis. The Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, Mr. Chaiwat Junthiraphong, led a team of administrative officers in this operation, which resulted in the arrest of an illegal hotel operator in the Huai Khwang-Sutthisan area.
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Provincial Administration received complaints through its Damrongtham Center about condominium owners in Pratunam renting out units daily to foreign tourists via a popular app. This practice has reportedly led to disturbances and safety concerns among other condominium residents.
In response, the Director-General tasked the Investigation and Legal Affairs Office with investigating the matter. Administrative officers, disguised as tourists, booked rooms in the targeted condominium using the app. The officers confirmed that the rooms were operating like hotel accommodations, thus violating the Hotel Act. Evidence was collected, and complaints were filed at Phaya Thai Police Station against the room owners and associated parties.
Further inspections in the Huai Khwang-Sutthisan area, led by Mr. Ratthawich Chitsucharitwong, uncovered unlicensed daily rentals at three establishments: The Athena, The Oasis, and Chang. Legal actions are underway against these operators for providing hotel services without a license.
Mr. Chaiwat outlined the legal repercussions for these violations, including potential imprisonment and fines. He also noted that some condo units are owned by foreign investors or involve nominee systems, which are under investigation for legal infractions.
To curb such illegal activities, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, has instructed the Department of Provincial Administration to educate accommodation providers about compliance with the Hotel Act. The department is also working on legal reforms to address these issues effectively. The public is encouraged to report illegal rentals through the Damrongtham Center hotline.