MAE HONG SON — A group of businessmen and residents of Pai district in Mae Hong Son province have had enough and have sent a formal letter to the Superintendent of Pai Police Station and Mae Hong Son Tourist Police demanding action after discovering that some foreign tourists living and traveling in Pai have violated various laws.
Mr. Kanit Phianphisuth, a representative of the business community and residents of Pai district in Mae Hong Son province, handed over the petition for justice to Pol. Col. Samret Samsrithong, Superintendent of Pai Police Station, and Pol. Lt. Col. Suwit Boonyapen, Inspector of Mae Hong Son Tourist Police, at the Pai Police Station. The petition called for investigations and enforcement action against foreign nationals working illegally in Pai district without a permit.
The district of Pai is known for its beautiful nature and the peaceful, harmonious coexistence of the locals, including Christians, Buddhists and Muslims. The friendly hospitality of the locals has warmly welcomed tourists over the years. However, the influx of certain groups of tourists has also had a negative impact.
The representative pointed out that in recent years, the number of foreign tourists staying in Pai for longer periods has increased significantly and some of them are engaged in unauthorized activities that violate Thai law.
The various illegal activities of foreign tourists include opening restaurants, cafes, homestay, performing music, teaching yoga, cutting hair, selling goods at local markets and stores, operating car rental agencies and tattoo parlors – all without proper permits. Some even register businesses under the name of Thai nationals without paying taxes.
This issue has been discussed extensively in the Pai community online, with calls for support and suggestions for solutions. On December 8, the group met with Pai district representatives and concluded that these problems are already affecting the city in the following ways:
Economic impact: Illegal foreign labor has created unfair competition with local small businesses. In addition, some foreigners use Thai agents to open businesses without complying with the law, leading to market dominance and unfair competition. Some have also organized illegal events, such as late night parties that exceed permitted hours and drug use.
Social and cultural effects: Such behavior may contribute to crime or inappropriate activity in the area, including theft and physical altercations. The presence of foreigners working illegally could change the local culture and way of life, especially if they do not respect local traditions.
The representative emphasized the need for public awareness and urged residents to document evidence, collect photos and videos, and report incidents involving their families or the community to the authorities so that they are officially recorded.
The group has already sent their letter to the Superintendent of Pai Police Station and the Inspector of Mae Hong Son Tourist Police. Copies have also been sent to the following authorities: Pai District Office, Mae Hong Son Immigration Office, Bangkok Immigration Office, Damrong Tham Center of Pai District, Damrong Tham Center of Mae Hong Son Province, Pai Police Station, Mae Hong Son Tourism Authority of Thailand Office, Pai District Cultural Council, Pai Tourism Association and the Ombudsman’s Office.
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