Tourist police on Koh Phangan have arrested nine people after raiding a hostel allegedly operated illegally by foreign nationals.
Officers and immigration officials inspected The 10 Club Hostel located in Moo 1 on the tourist island in Surat Thani province on Tuesday afternoon.
Authorities said they had received reports of foreigners working without permits and running a business using a nominee. The hostel was accused of creating a public nuisance, allowing drunken behaviour and only accepting Spanish guests.
Authorities arrested one Thai, three Spaniards and five Myanmar nationals.
Officials said the crackdown is part of a wider policy to eliminate illegal foreign-run businesses, nominee arrangements and inappropriate behaviour by foreigners living in Thailand.
Authorities warned that such activities damage the country’s image and may involve transnational crime.
