Those found guilty were also handed a suspended two-year prison sentence, with a one-year probation period, and ordered to dissolve their companies, Ms Auramon announced in a statement issued yesterday (Oct 21).
“The DBD urges Thai citizens who help foreigners illegally operate businesses in Thailand to stop immediately, as they risk facing legal penalties such as fines or imprisonment, as shown in this case,” the statement said.
Ms Auramon explained that the DBD conducts yearly inspections of businesses at risk of violating the Alien Business Act. They work with relevant agencies to identify and punish offenders.
The focus is on cases where Thai citizens hold shares on behalf of foreigners or support foreign businesses in sectors including tourism, restaurants, hotels, real estate and logistics, particularly in tourist provinces such as Phuket, Chonburi, Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
“In the most recent case, the department investigated irregularities in the shareholding of companies in Phuket and discovered that law and accounting firms were being used to register companies in the names of Thai nationals (nominees) on behalf of foreigners.
“This allowed foreigners to run businesses not legally allowed under Thai law. The case was forwarded to the DSI (Department of Special Investigation), which, after further investigation, had enough evidence to prosecute,” Ms Auramon said
“The Criminal Court’s verdict on Sept 11, 2567, serves as a warning to those who help foreigners evade Thai business laws,” she added.
“The department continues to prioritise investigating nominee cases and working with other agencies to enforce the law.
“Thai citizens involved in these activities are urged to stop, as they harm legitimate Thai businesses and could face penalties of up to three years in prison or fines ranging from B100,000 to B1 million.
“Those who continue to violate court orders may also face daily fines of B10,000 to B50,000 until they comply, Ms Auramon warned.
The Director-General concluded her statement by emphasising the DBD’s “commitment to solving the nominee issue and promoting legal compliance in foreign business operations in Thailand”.