DSI help sought to crack down mafia in Phuket
Tourism and Sports Minister Somsak Pureesrisak filed a petition to the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) on Tuesday, asking for its help in cracking down mafia gangs in Phuket.
Somsak said many Russians hired Thais as their nominees to operate restaurants, souvenir shops, and beach-bed rental services that had exploited tourists.
“These businesses have not generated any income for Thailand. Most if not all money goes to the mafia gangs’ pockets. Their intimidation techniques have also hurt Thailand’s tourism,” the minister said.
