KOH PHANGAN, Surat Thani Province, 1 March 2026 — A Koh Phangan prostitution arrest has led to the detention of two Ugandan women after Thai tourist police alleged they earned about 500,000 baht per month through a WhatsApp-based operation targeting foreign clients.
Koh Phangan Prostitution Arrest Following Tourist Tip-Off
The Koh Phangan prostitution arrest followed a report from an Israeli tourist. He informed police about foreign women allegedly offering sexual services and raised concerns about possible theft from clients.
Officers led by Lt. Col. Winij Boonchit searched a rented house in Moo 2, Koh Phangan subdistrict. In Thailand, a moo is a numbered village area within a subdistrict. Koh Phangan is a well-known island destination popular with tourists, including visitors attending the monthly Full Moon Party.
Police arranged an undercover operation through WhatsApp, a messaging platform widely used in Thailand. An officer agreed to pay 5,000 baht for two encounters. After a signal was given, officers entered the property and arrested two women identified as Janat Nakalema, 32, and Mariam Namatovu, 29, both Ugandan nationals.
Police said the women were detained while allegedly providing services to a foreign male tourist inside the house.
Alleged 500,000 Baht Monthly Income in Koh Phangan Prostitution Arrest
According to investigators, the suspects stated they had been operating on Koh Phangan for about two months. Police allege they focused mainly on foreign clients and saw an average of three to four customers per day.
Authorities estimate more than 180 clients were served during that period. Police claim the operation generated around 500,000 baht per month, or about 14,000 US dollars. The income was reportedly transferred to family members in Uganda.
Legal Implications After Koh Phangan Prostitution Arrest
Under Thai law, prostitution is illegal, although enforcement can vary by location. The women face charges of assembling for the purpose of prostitution and advertising or soliciting for prostitution.
They were transferred to investigators at Koh Phangan Police Station for further legal proceedings. If convicted, they may face fines, possible imprisonment, and deportation under Thai immigration regulations.
Conclusion
This Koh Phangan prostitution arrest highlights ongoing police efforts to monitor online activity in tourist areas. Expats and visitors should be aware that arranging or participating in prostitution in Thailand carries legal and immigration risks.
