Foreign Nominee Network Controls 22 Land Plots on Ko Lanta Worth 2 Billion Baht
A foreign nominee network controlled 22 land plots worth over 2 billion baht on Ko Lanta through multiple shell companies, authorities discovered during a crackdown in Krabi province.
Deputy Interior Minister Pol Peer Suwannachavee visited Po Island in Ko Lanta district, Krabi province, on July 24, 2025, to oversee the crackdown on a foreign nominee land-holding scheme. An investigation by Krabi Provincial Police identified a single foreigner who established multiple companies as a vehicle to disguise the ownership of Thai land. The three companies are clearly controlled by the same individual, despite appearing on paper to be separate Thai-registered entities.
The scheme employed a sophisticated structure rather than simple proxy shareholding. Multiple companies were created, and they held shares in each other in circular arrangements, making the registered shareholding structure appear to be Thai-owned. In reality, a single foreigner was the true controller, investor, manager, and beneficial owner. Initially, several Thai nationals held small shareholdings to meet legal requirements, but their roles were gradually phased out and replaced entirely by subsidiary company ownership. Investigation found that all three companies operated from the same office, shared the same location, moved offices on the same day, had identical key decision-makers, reported to a single management center, and engaged in stock transfers within the network over many years. While registered direct shareholding did not exceed 49 percent, calculations including indirect holdings through subsidiary companies revealed that the foreigner maintained complete and unqualified control and ownership of the companies.
The network held substantial land in Ko Lanta district totaling 22 plots covering more than 126 rai, with a combined market value exceeding 2 billion baht based on online sale advertisements. The companies actively marketed the properties for profit, constituting a land-trading business, which is prohibited for foreigners under the Foreign Business Act.
Investigation confirmed all 22 plots covering 126 rai, 1 ngan, and 29.7 square wah, with a total market value from advertised sales exceeding 2 billion baht. Authorities have gathered sufficient evidence to prosecute under the Land Code and the Foreign Business Act. Police Region 8 will pursue four key courses of action: First, prosecute all individuals and juristic persons involved, including anyone who assisted or concealed the violations. Second, coordinate with the Krabi Governor and relevant agencies to enforce the Land Code and order the sale of illegally acquired land, proceeding to forced sale if not resolved within the legal timeframe. Third, expand investigation to all property, companies, and persons linked to the network across Krabi, Phuket, and other areas in Police Region 8 to prevent asset transfers or restructuring. Fourth, pursue additional legal remedies to address the full scope of violations.
