Bangkok: Six foreigners have been apprehended for illegally operating a full-service beauty salon in the heart of Bangkok, reportedly catering to Chinese customers and taking jobs from local Thai workers. The operation was conducted by the Tourist Police in collaboration with the Department of Employment and Huai Khwang Police Station.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Pueak-am, Commander of the Tourist Police Bureau, spearheaded the investigation, tasking several police officials including Pol. Col. Songwut Chueaplakit and Pol. Lt. Col. Piyapong Bukhuntot with the inspection of the Yinhaijinchuan Barber and Salon located on Rama 9 Road. The inspection uncovered six individuals operating without proper authorization.
The individuals arrested include Mr. Chen Tao, 40, and Mr. Yang Bo, 31, both Chinese nationals, who were charged with working without a permit in a prohibited occupation. Four Burmese nationals were also detained: Ms. Line, 18, Ms. May, 23, Ms. Kai, 23, and Ms. Mo, 19. They face charges of illegal entry and engaging in a prohibited occupation.
The operation was part of a broader initiative led by Pol. Gen. Kittirat Panphet, the national police chief, to curb illegal activities by foreigners, especially those impacting the tourism industry. The initiative is timely, given the high tourist season, and aims to ensure safety and compliance with local employment laws.
Pol. Col. Songwut Chueaplakit emphasized the importance of monitoring illegal work activities by foreigners in key tourist areas. The discovery of the unauthorized beauty salon in the Phra Ram 9 area, aimed at serving Chinese tourists, was seen as a violation of laws reserving certain professions for Thai nationals. This prompted the launch of Operation Happy Chinese New Year 68, which targeted illegal foreign workers in the city.
The suspects have been charged and are currently being processed at the Huai Khwang Police Station, where further legal proceedings will take place.