Pattaya, February 12th, 2026– In a continued effort to maintain order and enhance the city’s image as a premier tourist destination, Pattaya City has intensified its operations with the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS) to address the issue of vagrants and homeless individuals in public areas.
At 10:00 a.m. today, Mr. Darongkiat Phinitchakan, Deputy Mayor of Pattaya City, presided over the dispatch of a joint task force at the multipurpose courtyard in front of Pattaya City Hall. The operation involved Mr. Korn Phatthanasin, Assistant Secretary to the Mayor, along with officers from the Chonburi Provincial Protection and Quality of Life Promotion Center (under MSDHS) and other relevant authorities. The team then proceeded to patrol and enforce regulations along Pattaya Beach.
Deputy Mayor Darongkiat Phinitchakan stated that Pattaya City has been working closely and continuously with MSDHS Chonburi officials to tackle the problems of vagrants, homeless persons, and beggars in the area. Today’s operation was prompted by numerous complaints from residents and tourists regarding large numbers of vagrants residing in public spaces, causing nuisance and discomfort.
During the enforcement along Pattaya Beach, authorities apprehended a total of 20 individuals identified as vagrants or homeless persons, 12 males and 8 females.
After recording personal details:
– 5 individuals (1 male and 4 females) were found to have clear permanent residences. They were escorted out of the beach area and instructed not to return to loiter or reside there.
– 13 individuals (9 males and 4 females) were referred to the Provincial Protection and Quality of Life Promotion Center for further care and support.
– 1 male was handed over to Pattaya City Police Station due to a prior arrest warrant.
– 1 male foreign national was transferred to the Tourist Police to be processed and eventually likely deported.
Of those apprehended, 12 cases (8 males and 4 females) were repeat offenders who had previously been processed.
The Pattaya City administration stated that it remains committed to addressing the ongoing challenges posed by vagrants, homeless individuals, and beggars. Regular joint patrols and enforcement actions with relevant agencies will continue to ensure public safety, cleanliness, and an orderly environment, thereby sustaining Pattaya’s reputation as a safe, welcoming, and attractive destination for residents and visitors alike.
Deputy Mayor Darongkiat urged the public and tourists to refrain from giving money to beggars, noting that such acts often encourage repeat offending and perpetuate the cycle of vagrancy. “Do not give money to beggars,” he said, explaining that sympathy-based giving can inadvertently fuel ongoing public nuisance and safety concerns.
Anyone encountering beggars or vagrants is encouraged to report them immediately via the following hotlines (available 24/7):
– 1337 (general emergency reporting)
– 1300 (MSDHS hotline, toll-free)
– Pattaya City Police Station (direct contact, 24 hours)
Pattaya City continues its proactive approach to create a more orderly and sustainable tourism environment for all.
