PUBLISHED: 23 Feb 2025 at 14:12
MAE HONG SON: Recent investigations in Pai district have dispelled claims of significant Israeli influence or business ownership, as reported on social media platforms.
Pol Maj Gen Songkrit Ontakrai, commander of Mae Hong Son police, confirmed that thorough checks were conducted across tourist attractions and commercial areas, establishing that all local businesses are Thai-owned.
“All streets, car rental services, guesthouses, religious sites, and hotels were inspected. Our findings show that these businesses are entirely owned by Thai nationals with no foreign ownership,” stated the commander.
During the inspections, officials cautioned visitors against disruptive behavior, including public smoking and consumption of alcohol.
The commander led a patrol on Pai Walking Street Saturday night, resulting in the arrest and fines of ten individuals for public cannabis use that disturbed others.
There are currently 84 licensed cannabis shops operational in Pai Walking Street.
This year alone, 4,573 Israeli tourists have visited Pai, but only 24 have requested to extend their stay as of February 19.
Pol Maj Gen Songkrit also clarified that claims of over 30,000 Israeli visitors in Pai are unfounded, given the 3,257 available rental rooms in the area.
In the past year, law enforcement has apprehended 1,634 foreigners for traffic violations, alongside 27 individuals, including 13 Israelis, for illegal immigration in Pai.
“Our commitment is to uphold the safety and reputation of Pai as a prominent tourist destination,” emphasized the Mae Hong Son police commander.
