CHIANG MAI — 13 July 2026, Tourist Police arrested a Myanmar national accused of operating an illegal tour business after officers went undercover as Mexican tourists during an operation at a popular temple in Chiang Mai.
The suspect, identified as Saw, 39, a Myanmar national, was arrested at Wat Chedi Luang in Muang district following an investigation by officers from Tourist Police Division 2.
The operation was carried out under the direction of Pol Maj Gen Olar Iamprapas, commander of Tourist Police Division 2, and Pol Col Phitsanu Triamdee, superintendent of Division 2, with investigators from Tourist Police Station 1 taking part in the arrest.
Police charged the suspect with multiple offences, including:
- Operating a tour business without a licence under the Tourism Business and Tourist Guide Act B.E. 2551 (2008).
- Working as a tourist guide without a valid licence.
- Using a vehicle for purposes other than those specified in its registration under the Motor Vehicle Act B.E. 2522 (1979).
- Working as a foreign national without a work permit or outside the scope of authorised employment.
- Operating a business in violation of the Foreign Business Act.
Following the arrest, the suspect was handed over to investigators at Muang Chiang Mai Police Station for legal proceedings.
Tourist Police said they would continue cracking down on unlicensed tour operators and illegal tourist guides to strengthen confidence in Thailand’s tourism industry and raise service standards.
According to local reports, officers successfully carried out the operation after disguising themselves as Mexican tourists before apprehending the suspect inside the historic temple.
