Unlicensed Tour Operator Arrested at Chiang Mai Airport for Duping 31 Tourists on Kunming-Chongqing Trip
An unlicensed tour operator was arrested at Chiang Mai Airport after 31 Thai tourists discovered they had no airline tickets for a Kunming-Chongqing trip. The suspect operated without proper authorization and faces up to 2 years imprisonmen
Tourism Authority Director Jaturon Pakdeewanich announced the arrest on April 24 at 10:30 a.m. after receiving reports from the Northern Regional Tour and Guide Registration Office. Thirty-one Thai tourists from Chiang Rai who purchased a Kunming-Chongqing, People's Republic of China tour package (scheduled for April 24-29, 2025) discovered they had no airline tickets when it came time to depart. The Registration Office and tourism police investigated the tour documents and payment records, identifying the suspect as Ms. A (pseudonym) or Company A (pseudonym). Database checks revealed the operator had never obtained a tour business license. Authorities charged the suspect with operating a tour business without authorization, violating Section 15 combined with Section 80 of the Tour Business and Guide Act B.E. 2551, which carries penalties of up to 2 years imprisonment or fines up to 500,000 baht or both. The suspect was arrested and transferred to Phu Phing Police Station in Chiang Mai for further legal proceedings. The Tourism Authority Director urged tourists to verify tour operators through the official website at www.dot.go.th before booking, ensuring smooth, reliable service and legal protection under relevant laws.
