Pattaya, Thailand – On the evening of January 15th, 2026, Pattaya City authorities launched a coordinated operation to address the persistent issue of begging in key tourist areas, resulting in the detention and screening of 15 people, including repeat offenders and foreign nationals.
Led by Nathaphop Yom Jinda, Deputy District Chief of Banglamung, and Damrongkiat Phinitkan, Deputy Mayor of Pattaya City, the multi-agency team included officers from Pattaya City Police Station, the Pattaya City Social Welfare Office, Chonburi Immigration Police, the Chonburi Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office (DSDHS), and Pattaya City’s Special Affairs Unit.
The operation focused on high-traffic locations, including Pattaya Beach Road, Sukhumvit Road Pattaya Soi 2, and the area in front of Wat Chai. Authorities invited all individuals observed begging to Pattaya Police Station for nationality screening to separate Thai citizens from foreigners.
Thai offenders face fines in accordance with regulations, while foreign nationals are processed for deportation to their countries of origin.
Special attention was given to cases involving mothers and children. In such instances, children are placed under temporary care by relevant agencies, and DNA testing is conducted (especially for first-time cases) to verify relationships and ensure child protection.
Deputy Mayor Damrongkiat Phinitkan explained to The Pattaya News team that begging significantly damages Pattaya’s image as a premier tourist destination. Many visitors mistakenly assume the beggars are Thai nationals, particularly in cases involving mothers with young children, which creates discomfort and negative perceptions.
Authorities distributed “No Giving Money to Beggars” campaign signs and reminded officers to perform their duties with politeness, gentleness, and full respect for human rights.
The operation deployed three teams covering all target areas, identifying both Thai and Cambodian individuals. In total, 15 people were detained: 5 women, 7 men, 2 Myanmar nationals, and one infant aged 1 year and 2 months. All were processed according to agency procedures.
Officials noted that most of those apprehended were repeat offenders.
Pattaya City has continuously promoted the “Do Not Give Money to Beggars” campaign through signage installation and distribution, urging the public and tourists to report sightings via the DSDHS hotline 1300 for a sustainable resolution.
