Immigration Bureau Marks 99 Years, Vows Nominee Crackdown
The Immigration Bureau marked its 99th anniversary with a ceremony attended by senior officials and former chiefs. Lt. Gen. Nopasin Phol‑sawat vowed to strengthen efforts against illegal nominee land holdings, citing seven phases of investigations that have seized land worth over 4.339 billion baht. The Bureau also detailed a four‑point strategy to boost security and facilitate legitimate investment.
The ceremony took place on October 1, 2069 at the Immigration Bureau office in Muang Thong Thani, where Lt. Gen. Nopasin Phol‑sawat led senior officers in paying respects to the Bureau’s sacred Buddha image, Luang Pho Khao Muang, as well as Luang Pho Pharinphinat, Luang Pho To, and the deity shrine. Former Bureau chiefs also attended. Police Chief Gen. Samran Nuan‑ma later presided over the proceedings, inspected the honor guard, and watched a video titled '99 Years of Thai Immigration Under the Royal Shade.' Lt. Gen. Nopasin said the Bureau continues to uphold national security per government and Royal Thai Police policy, intensifying actions against foreign illegal capital and Thai nominee holders through deep checks of corporate structures, financial flows, and ultimate beneficiaries. Since the 'Ko Pha-ngan model,' seven phases have been carried out nationwide, seizing 309 parcels of illegal land totaling about 217 rai, valued at roughly 4.339 billion baht. The Bureau also combats fraudulent vehicle registration and identity cards, and pursues a four‑point strategy: proactive security, intelligence‑led operations, network disruption, and international‑standard service, aiming to thwart transnational threats while facilitating legitimate travelers and investors. The Immigration Bureau was established on October 1, 2470 BE under King Rama VII, initially as the Immigration Department under the Ministry of Interior, and became a bureau‑level command in 2536 BE.
