Severe Penalties for Those Supporting Criminal Networks
February 22, 2025 – Pol. Lt. Gen. Yingyos Thepjamnong, Commander of Provincial Police Region 2, has issued a stern warning to hotels, guesthouses, and drivers against aiding call center gangs by providing accommodation or transportation for mule account holders. Under the ongoing “Aran 68 Seal Border” operation, law enforcement is intensifying efforts to curb transnational crimes, particularly in Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces.
Authorities have been targeting networks involved in cross-border human trafficking and financial fraud, successfully arresting multiple suspects and assisting victims. Hotels, especially unlicensed ones, have been cautioned against offering shelter to criminals using mule accounts, as well as to those facilitating their movement. Drivers and transport services have also been warned against accepting jobs that involve transferring these individuals to border areas, as such actions constitute aiding criminal enterprises and carry severe legal consequences, including imprisonment and hefty fines.
Landmark Case: 5.5 Million Baht Fine
In a recent crackdown, the Investigation Division of 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, identified as Mr. A (assumed name), 48, was arrested and later sentenced by the Sa Kaeo Provincial Court. The court imposed a three-month suspended prison term, a base fine of 5,000 baht, and an additional daily fine of 1,000 baht over 5,528 days, amounting to a total penalty of 5,528,000 baht.
Police have so far prosecuted two hotels and five drivers involved in facilitating mule accounts. The drivers were charged with operating public vehicles without proper authorization.
“This should serve as a costly lesson to illegal hotel operators who knowingly shelter criminals. Those who provide accommodation or assistance to mule account holders may face serious legal repercussions,” warned Pol. Lt. Gen. Yingyos.
Legal Consequences for Business Operators
Under the Hotel Act of 2004, operating an unlicensed hotel is punishable by up to one year in prison, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, and additional daily fines of up to 10,000 baht for continued violations. Hotel managers who fail to maintain proper guest records may face administrative fines ranging from 20,000 to 100,000 baht.
Additionally, the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 1999 stipulates that anyone assisting in money laundering offenses, including providing shelter, vehicles, or financial support, faces imprisonment of 1 to 10 years and/or fines between 20,000 and 200,000 baht. Corporations found guilty of such offenses could be fined up to 1,000,000 baht.
Authorities Urge Vigilance
Business owners are urged to thoroughly check guests and immediately report any suspicious activities to law enforcement. “Do not let your hotel or transport service become a hub for criminals. Report any suspicious behavior to the authorities immediately,” stressed the commander.
Provincial Police Region 2 remains committed to dismantling transnational crime networks and preventing border provinces from becoming safe havens for criminal gangs. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to report it via the hotline 191 or 1599, available 24/7, or through the Provincial Police Region 2 Facebook page.
