PM Orders Immediate Deportation of Foreigners Breaking Thai Law

At the Interior Ministry on September 17, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul outlined the government's policy on foreign nationals exploiting Thailand's system, praising Deputy Interior Minister Piyasakol Suvanachavee for leading enforcement efforts against such offenders. Anutin stated that foreigners are welcome to work honestly in Thailand without exploiting its people or resources, but those displaying aggressive behavior, intimidation, or other misconduct must face full enforcement of the law, particularly in target provinces including Phuket and Surat Thani.

Anutin emphasized that the establishment of religious sites without proper authorization, the conversion of commercial spaces into unlicensed religious facilities, and requests for private cemeteries have gone too far. He stated that foreigners should conduct their affairs lawfully or leave Thailand. If they choose to live in the country and eventually die, they should do so in their home countries without exploiting Thailand or its people.

The Prime Minister announced that he has already signed Interior Ministry orders enabling full deportation procedures and mechanisms. He addressed concerns about deportation funding, stating that provinces should cover airfare costs for deporting offenders, as keeping such individuals in Thailand represents a burden on state resources. Anutin rejected the argument that deportations cannot proceed without clear funding sources, saying provinces should cover initial costs and seek reimbursement later. He stressed that deportation is the only option for those engaging in misconduct, without need for lengthy legal proceedings or appeals. If such individuals are prosecuted domestically and imprisoned instead of deported, Thailand wastes its food, water, and detention facilities. Provincial governors and district chiefs must enforce this policy immediately and efficiently whenever offenders meet deportation criteria.