Illegal International School in Bangkok Shut Down
Immigration authorities conducted a raid on an international school operating without a license in the Soi Pridi Banomyong area of Bangkok yesterday, May 30. The operation also uncovered that the institution had employed six foreign teachers lacking the necessary work permits.
Extensive Operation Uncovers Violations
The inspection, initiated around 1 p.m., followed an anonymous tip received by Immigration Bureau officers. The tip alleged that the school was functioning without official approval and illegally employing foreign educators. The Office of the Private Education Commission and the Department of Employment collaborated in the enforcement action.
During the inspection, officials confirmed the school was operating without a license. Furthermore, six foreign teachers, identified as being from the Philippines and Myanmar, were found to be working without valid work permits. These teachers were subsequently arrested and transported to Khlong Tan Police Station for legal proceedings.
School Operated for Over Five Years
Preliminary investigations indicate the school had been offering educational services for more than five years. It served over 100 students, all of whom were foreign nationals ranging from kindergarten to secondary school levels.
Pattern of Illegal Educational Institutions
Immigration police noted that similar unlicensed international schools have been identified in various locations. These clandestine educational facilities are often situated in secluded or difficult-to-access alleyways, primarily catering to foreign students and employing foreign teachers without proper work authorization.
The Immigration Bureau stated its commitment to continuing crackdowns on both unlicensed international schools and individuals working illegally within the country.
Related Enforcement Action in Samut Sakhon
In a separate, significant enforcement action in Samut Sakhon, over 900 migrant students and dozens of unauthorized teachers were discovered at two illegal educational facilities. Despite having its license revoked, one of these institutions continued to operate, providing classes to migrant children and employing 27 staff members without proper credentials.
The Thai national associated with this facility initially claimed it was operating as a licensed youth camp. However, officials swiftly refuted this assertion, confirming that the location was not registered for any educational or youth-related activities.
