PATTAYA, Thailand
Authorities in Pattaya conducted a targeted operation on January 13th, 2026, resulting in the arrest of six foreign nationals working illegally at the bustling Rattanakorn Market (also known as Ratanakorn Market) on Thepprasit Road.
The raid took place around 10:00 a.m. and involved a joint team from the Transnational Crime Suppression Center at Pattaya City Police Station, under the supervision of Pol Maj Gen Phongphan Wongmanithet, Commander of Chonburi Provincial Police. The operation was led by senior officers including Pol Col Wasurat Chaithiraphat (Deputy Commander), Pol Col Anek Sathongyu (Superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station), and investigators from the immigration and transnational crime units.
The action followed public complaints about the employment of unauthorized foreign labor. During the inspection of stalls and market areas officers identified and detained six individuals working without proper work permits.
The arrested workers consisted of four Laotian nationals and two Myanmar nationals. One of the Myanmar nationals was unable to produce a valid passport or any identification documents.
All six were charged with offenses under Thai immigration law, including entering and remaining in the Kingdom without permission, as well as engaging in employment without authorization. They have been taken into custody at Pattaya City Police Station for further legal processing.
Police told The Pattaya News that the crackdown is part of a broader effort to address illegal foreign labor in the region. Investigators will now expand the case by identifying and pursuing the stall owners or employers responsible for hiring the undocumented workers. Legal action against those who facilitate or employ illegal labor is expected to follow.
The operation reflects ongoing national and provincial priorities to curb unauthorized employment, protect local job opportunities, and enforce immigration regulations in tourist-heavy areas like Pattaya.
Authorities have urged the public to report any suspected cases of illegal labor to help maintain order and fairness in the local workforce.
The Pattaya News notes that this is the second inspection for illegal foreign workers at the same market in a single week.
