Koh Phangan panel moves to revoke visas of three US tourists over ‘inappropriate behaviour’
Koh Phangan district authorities in Surat Thani have agreed to seek revocation of the visas of three US nationals of Israeli ethnicity, citing behaviour seen as potentially affecting public order, with the case to be forwarded to Immigration Police for action.
Authorities in Koh Phangan district, Surat Thani, have stepped up enforcement measures and agreed to seek the revocation of visas for three foreign tourists, citing behaviour deemed inappropriate and potentially disruptive to public order.
The decision followed a meeting chaired by Paisit Thongjerm, Koh Phangan district chief, who led the district’s Committee for Screening the Behaviour of Foreign Nationals in the Kingdom (Koh Phangan area) at its fifth meeting of 2026. Agencies attending included Immigration Police, provincial police, tourist police, special branch officers, local administrative executives and district officials.
The panel reviewed the case of three US nationals of Israeli ethnicity. Officials said the three were found to have walked while carrying a flag bearing a religious symbol, and had allegedly encouraged people to form a group via WhatsApp, distributing leaflets to organise an activity in Koh Tao subdistrict.
Authorities said the actions caused concern among business operators, residents and tourists, and could lead to unrest in the area. The meeting agreed to revoke the visas of the three individuals and to prepare a report for submission to the commander of Immigration Police, who will consider action under relevant laws and authority.
Koh Phangan district officials said they will continue working with all agencies to monitor and maintain public order, aiming to sustain confidence in safety for residents and visitors.
