Thai Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has called for an urgent investigation into the source of a Bangkok billboard advertising the sale of passports and nationalities. The billboard was located in the Huai Khwang district of Bangkok. This investigation aligns with Mr. Anutin’s broader strategy to crack down on crime hubs and bolster the country’s reputation and public trust.

Ministry spokeswoman Traisulee Traisaranakul announced on July 22 that Mr Anutin had been informed about social media posts criticising the Chinese-language billboard, which advertised the sale of passports and nationalities from several countries.

Mr. Anutin, who also serves as Deputy Prime Minister, ordered the immediate removal of the billboard and a thorough investigation. Should any illegal activities be discovered, the investigation will expand to identify and penalise those responsible. The billboard had been taken down as of press time.

Ms Traisulee emphasised that while the government is implementing policies to facilitate easier entry for tourists, there must be stricter screening to prevent criminals from using Thailand as a base for illegal activities. “Since easing visa regulations for several countries, Anutin has directed provincial governors and local administrative bodies to work with police and security agencies for stringent inspections and monitoring,” she said. “This is to prevent Thailand from becoming a hub for criminal activity, which could harm the country’s image, tourism confidence, and long-term investments.”

Mr. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, an MP from the Move Forward Party, expressed concern, stating that the billboard represents a severe legal breach. “If true, it signifies a blatant disregard for Thai authorities. The billboard in Huai Khwang, where many Chinese nationals reside, suggests it targeted them. This could mean our country is becoming a centre for global threats,” Mr Wiroj said.

He added that such incidents damage the country’s reputation and could attract international criminals. If verified, authorities should pursue legal action. He also noted the possibility of the Chinese mafia and criminals with arrest warrants using Thailand as a haven. “Rumors suggest a network of Chinese criminals uses Thailand as a hideout before moving to other countries. This network seems well-organised, with the ability to bribe officials and turn Thailand into a hub for illegal activities,” Mr Wiroj added.

The billboard featured a prominent message in Chinese, first noticed by a Facebook user who used Google Translate to interpret it. The advertisement offered a legal passport and nationality within 30 days, including a price list for passports from Indonesia, Vanuatu, Cambodia, and Turkey. After gaining social media attention, the billboard was removed by 10 am on July 22.

Mr. Paitoon Ngammuk, director of the Huai Khwang district, confirmed that an initial investigation report has been received, and further detailed inspections will follow. Convicted individuals face penalties, including imprisonment and/or fines. Meanwhile, deputy immigration chief Panthana Nuchanart stated that while some countries sell nationalities, this practice is strictly forbidden in Thailand. Investigators will determine if any illegal activities occurred. Preliminary findings suggest the billboard advertised the sale of other nationalities, not Thai, using Thailand as the advertising venue. Nonetheless, thorough checks will be conducted to ensure no national security breaches.