The inspection was carried out under the directive of Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat, said an official report of the raid, which confirmed the raid was conducted on Monday (Mar 10), but did not name the construction project.
The operation was conducted by the Phuket branch of the Internal Security Operations Command (Isoc) in coordination with the Phuket Provincial Employment Office, Phuket Immigration Police, Phuket Provincial Office and the Phuket Social Development and Human Security Office.
Officers arrived at 10am and identified 64 workers at the site. Of these, 28 had valid documentation, while 36 were unable to present their papers.
The 36 workers were taken to the Phuket Provincial Employment Office for further verification, and by 12:30pm their employer had provided documents confirming the validity of 35 of the workers, who were subsequently allowed to return to work, said the report.
One worker was found to be without a valid work permit and was charged with remaining in the country after the permit to stay had expired (overstay) and working without a valid work permit, the report confirmed.
The report did not confirm what legal action was taken against the unnamed employer.
The illegal worker was taken into custody and transferred to Wichit Police Station for legal proceedings, the report said.
Regardless, the official report included a warning to employers, “remindeding” business operators and employers to ensure that their foreign workers carry the necessary documents, including: passport with appropriate visa, work permit, registration documents, a valid health certificate and confirmation of health insurance or social security registration.
“Ensuring compliance with these legal requirements will help prevent future legal action and maintain proper regulations regarding foreign workers in Thailand,” the report concluded.