Sri Racha, Chonburi – January 3rd, 2026
Authorities in Sri Racha district have detained a 44-year-old woman for allegedly offering misleading tourism services, including overpriced motorcycle rentals and accommodations on Ko Sichang island, following complaints from concerned citizens that such practices were damaging the area’s tourism image.
The operation took place on January 3rd at Ko Loi (Loy) Pier, a busy ferry terminal serving routes to Ko Sichang, a popular island destination off the coast of Chonburi province.
Under the direction of Chonburi Governor Narit Niramaiwong, Sri Racha District Chief Weekit Manarojkit mobilised a joint task force comprising of district security officials, Sri Racha Police Station officers, Marine Department personnel, municipal officers from Sri Racha Municipality, members of the district’s Volunteer Defense Corps (Unit 2), and volunteers from the Lions Club’s “Phithak Ratch” group.
The proactive measures were designed to enhance safety and confidence among Thai and foreign tourists using ferry and speedboat services, particularly to Ko Sichang. Officials responded to public complaints about individuals touting motorcycle rentals, accommodations, and speedboat transfers, often exaggerating convenience or misleading tourists into believing they were official government representatives.
During the inspection, authorities identified a woman matching the description in the complaints, referred to only as “Ms. Big” (pseudonym), aged 44. She was questioned and subjected to a random urine test for illegal substances, which returned positive. She was then handed over to Sri Racha Police for further legal action related to drug use.
Additionally, Sri Racha Municipality officials determined that the woman had been distributing flyers and business cards without permission, violating Section 10 of the Act on Maintaining Cleanliness and Orderliness of the Kingdom B.E. 2535 (1992), as amended in B.E. 2560 (2017). The offence carries a maximum fine of 5,000 baht.
In a separate screening to ensure passenger safety, ferry and speedboat operators underwent random urine tests for drugs. All results were negative, helping to reassure tourists about the reliability and safety of maritime transport services.
Relevant officials stated that the crackdown is part of ongoing efforts to protect Chonburi’s tourism reputation and prevent exploitation of visitors at key transport hubs.
