PHANG NGA – Residents and local business operators on Koh Yao Noi island in Phang Nga province have formally protested against a foreign national they accuse of illegally operating tourism businesses and depriving locals of employment opportunities. The group submitted a complaint to the Ko Yao district chief on January 9, urging authorities to investigate and intervene.

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Villagers from Moo 4, Ban Tha Khao, gathered with protest signs before heading to the district office. They alleged that a South African man, who holds a retirement visa (Non-Immigrant O) and has lived on the island since around 2013, has been running multiple tourism-related enterprises in violation of Thai law. They claim he has repeatedly intimidated residents by asserting connections with influential officials.

According to the complaint, the foreigner—who is married to a Thai woman—operates Thai massage services, tourism packages, and daily accommodation rentals. He is accused of promoting his businesses online, placing advertisements on public roads, personally guiding tourists, and operating boats in direct competition with local operators.

The petition also outlines several alleged legal violations, including purchasing and selling land, using residential permits to build houses that are then rented out short-term, employing Thai nominees to register companies, and converting leased properties into unlicensed tourist lodging. These activities have reportedly sparked ongoing conflicts with local business owners.

Representatives Ms. Rewadi Hapsa and Ms. Nuanjan Kinglek called on authorities to examine the man’s visa compliance, investigate possible nominee arrangements, review company financial records and tax filings, and inspect land and building permits associated with his businesses.

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Ko Yao district officials have acknowledged the complaint and stated they will refer the matter to relevant agencies for legal review. No findings or enforcement actions have been announced yet. Residents say they will monitor the case closely as the investigation proceeds.

-Thailand News (TN)