Tourist police arrested a Thai woman connected to an unlicensed cosmetic clinic allegedly operated by Russians on Koh Phangan on July 17, 2025, following complaints from foreign tourists who suffered injuries from laser treatments.
Thai tourist police conducted a raid on an unauthorized beauty clinic on Koh Phangan believed to be run by Russian nationals, arresting a Thai woman identified as Ms. Saithan, 43, who was managing the premises. The operation followed multiple complaints from foreign nationals, including British and Israeli tourists, alleging severe side effects from unlicensed cosmetic procedures.
Authorities said the clinic, known as “Laser Me,” had been operating out of Village 4 in Koh Phangan District, Surat Thani Province. Although the storefront displayed a “closed” sign, investigators confirmed that the business was secretly conducting operations behind locked doors. Officers seized medical equipment including lasers for melasma, hair removal, and skin tightening, along with treatment beds, protective eyewear, and various medical supplies.
The raid came after a British tourist contacted embassy officials and filed a formal complaint, reporting serious burns and inflammation following laser surgery at the clinic. An Israeli tourist also contacted the Tourist Police hotline 1155, claiming that a procedure left him with severe body wounds and demanding a refund of 48,000 baht. Other victims, including one who suffered from rotting wounds on his thighs, reportedly refrained from filing complaints due to fear or intimidation.
The clinic allegedly treated 3–4 customers per day over the past six months, with an estimated total of 600 clients—primarily Russian tourists. Authorities said the operation generated approximately 300,000 baht per month. According to Ms. Saithan, she was hired as the shop’s manager and responsible for administering laser treatments, massage therapy, and cupping services. She claimed to receive 25 percent of the monthly earnings, with customer appointments coordinated through a Russian national identified as Ms. Olesia, who does not reside in Thailand.
During questioning, Ms. Saithan admitted the clinic had no license to operate as a medical facility, nor was she authorized to perform medical procedures. She now faces charges of operating a nursing business without a permit and practicing medicine without a license, under Section 16 of Thailand’s Hospital Act B.E. 2541.
Police investigators believe the clinic attempted to evade detection by disguising itself as a closed beauty salon. Officers used a food delivery cover to gain entry and confirmed that services were actively being provided. Authorities are now expanding their investigation to identify any business nominees and further determine the extent of the illegal operation.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Pueak-am, Commander-in-Chief of the Tourist Police Bureau, has directed police units in major tourist destinations to step up enforcement against unauthorized businesses operated by foreign nationals, citing the importance of tourist safety and maintaining Thailand’s image as a secure travel destination.