Technology · Thailand Bureau
Authorities target nominee scheme with raids at three Pattaya locations
Thai officials have conducted coordinated raids at three sites in the coastal city of Pattaya as part of an investigation into a suspected nominee arrangement used to obscure foreign ownership of land and commercial enterprises. Investigators seized computers and documents from the locations during the operation.
LSN Thailand ·
The enforcement action represents an escalation in authorities' efforts to crack down on nominee schemes, which are commonly used to circumvent Thailand's restrictions on foreign property ownership. Under Thai law, nominees—typically Thai nationals—are prohibited from holding assets on behalf of foreign nationals or entities.
The raids targeted multiple locations across Pattaya, a major commercial and tourism hub on Thailand's eastern seaboard. Investigators removed computer equipment and documentary evidence from the sites for further examination as part of the ongoing investigation into the alleged scheme.
Nominee arrangements have long been a concern for Thai regulators seeking to enforce foreign ownership restrictions on land, condominiums, and business operations. The practice typically involves foreign investors using Thai proxies to acquire and manage properties while maintaining de facto control of the assets.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the scope of assets potentially involved in the scheme or made public any charges against individuals connected to the investigation. Officials are expected to release additional details as the case progresses.