Bangkok, August 8th, 2025 – In a major crackdown on illegal foreign labor, Thailand’s Tourist Police dismantled an upscale barbershop in the Ratchada area, arresting seven Chinese nationals for working without permits and taking jobs reserved for Thai citizens.
The operation, conducted under the directive of National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet and led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phuek-am, Commander of the Tourist Police Bureau, follows a nationwide policy to combat illegal activities by foreigners, including unauthorized work and transnational crime. The National Police Agency established the Center for Suppression of Transnational Criminals and Illegal Immigrants to enhance efficiency in tracking and apprehending offenders. A sweeping operation was launched across the country from August 4th-8th, 2025, targeting illegal entrants, fugitives, and other lawbreakers.
Acting on a tip-off, a special task force led by Pol. Col. Man Rotthong, Superintendent of the Tourist Police Investigation Division, deployed undercover officers to investigate a salon on Ratchadaphisek Road. The team, supervised by Pol. Maj. Kritphol Saengsura and supported by Pol. Capt. Phattarapol Choochuen and Pol. Capt. Warin Srimanasrat, confirmed that Chinese nationals were illegally providing hairdressing services. Surveillance, including photos and videos, was gathered as evidence before a raid was conducted.
During the operation, authorities apprehended seven Chinese men working as barbers. While their visas permitted temporary stay in Thailand, none possessed valid work permits. Furthermore, hairdressing is a protected profession reserved exclusively for Thai nationals under Ministry of Labor regulations. The suspects were charged with working without permits and engaging in a prohibited occupation. They were informed of their legal rights through an interpreter and transferred to Suthisan Police Station for further legal proceedings.
