According to Pol Maj Gen Sinlert Sukhum, Commander of the Phuket Provincial Police, Russians accounted for 3,121 cases, followed by Chinese (1,721), British (1,419), French (1,365), and Indian nationals (1,069).
The figures were presented at a press conference yesterday (June 22), where Phuket police outlined the results of their 2025 operations and their ongoing efforts to maintain public safety under the Phuket Model initiative, which focuses on crime suppression, tourist protection, and reducing road accidents.
Since Jan 1, a total of 369 foreigners have been arrested for various offenses, Pol Maj Gen. Sinlert said. These include 87 cases involving violations of the Immigration Act, 65 cases of drunk driving, and 27 cases related to breaches of the Alien Employment Act. In addition, there were 23 drug-related cases and 51 cases involving other criminal offenses.
Police also highlighted improved road safety outcomes during the 2025 Songkran Festival. The province recorded 45 road accidents resulting in 45 injuries, with no fatalities reported. Officials credited the results to strict enforcement of traffic laws, the 100% Helmet Project, and improved public transport organization.
Key cases this year included the arrest of individuals involved in 14 foreign nominee companies.
Nigerian nationals were arrested for drug trafficking while using student visas in an operation handled by Kamala Police Station. Phuket City Police Station also arrested two Nigerian suspects after they were caught drifting through a red-light intersection. In another case, Thalang Police Station arrested a Jordanian suspect for drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms. Additionally, Phuket City and Kathu Police Stations jointly arrested a teenage gang involved in firearm-related violence.
Looking forward, Phuket police are preparing to expand the Phuket Eye smart security network, Pol Maj Gen Sinlert said.
The next phase will see 503 additional CCTV cameras installed, increasing the current total of 233, with a budget of B98 million. The upgraded system will include license plate recognition and 30-day image data storage, he said.
The expansion is expected to be completed in 2026, with a future budget of more than B190mn planned for further development.
Pol Maj Gen Sinlert said the Phuket Provincial Police will continue to strictly enforce crime prevention, traffic discipline, and tourist safety measures while enhancing smart surveillance to support Phuket’s image as a safe, world-class destination.