February 22, 2025 – Police forces in Provincial Police Region 2 have intensified their crackdown on hotels, guesthouses, and drivers aiding criminal call center gangs, with severe penalties for those providing accommodation or transportation to mule account holders. The ongoing “Aran 68 Seal Border” operation is targeting cross-border crimes, particularly in Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Yingyos Thepjamnong, Commander of Provincial Police Region 2, warned businesses that support these networks would face heavy legal consequences. Hotels, particularly unlicensed ones, are under scrutiny for sheltering criminals involved in financial fraud, while transport services are being warned against aiding the movement of such criminals to border areas.
Landmark Case Results in 5.5 Million Baht Fine
A recent investigation led by the Provincial Police Region 2 and Sa Kaeo Provincial Police uncovered a guesthouse in Aranyaprathet District harboring mule account holders. On February 17, 2025, the guesthouse owner, Mr. A (name assumed), 48, was arrested. The Sa Kaeo Provincial Court imposed a hefty fine, including a three-month suspended sentence and a total penalty of 5.5 million baht.
Authorities have also prosecuted two hotels and five drivers for their involvement in facilitating mule accounts. Drivers were charged with operating public vehicles without the proper authorization.
“This should serve as a warning to illegal hotel operators who knowingly shelter criminals. Those assisting mule account holders will face serious legal action,” said Pol. Lt. Gen. Yingyos.
Severe Legal Consequences for Business Operators
Under the Hotel Act of 2004, unlicensed hotel operators face up to one year in prison, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, and daily fines for continued violations. Hotel managers failing to maintain proper guest records could face administrative fines ranging from 20,000 to 100,000 baht.
The Anti-Money Laundering Act of 1999 carries penalties of 1 to 10 years in prison and fines of up to 200,000 baht for those involved in facilitating money laundering, including providing shelter or transportation. Corporations found guilty could be fined up to 1 million baht.
Authorities Urge Immediate Reporting of Suspicious Activity
Business owners are strongly encouraged to conduct thorough checks on guests and report suspicious activity to the authorities. “Do not let your hotel or transport service become a safe haven for criminals. Report anything unusual immediately,” stressed the commander.
Provincial Police Region 2 remains dedicated to dismantling transnational crime networks. Anyone with information should contact the authorities via hotline 191 or 1599, or through the Provincial Police Region 2 Facebook page.
