Thai Immigration Police recently apprehended Gurinder Singh, an Indian national, in the southern territory of Phattalung for allegedly exceeding his visa by a considerable margin – over five months. Mr. Singh, having leftover funds, expressed his desire to extend his visit and make a trip to Pattaya. The 31-year-old Indian farmer found himself in the custody of Phattalung Provincial Immigration authorities while he was enjoying a train journey from Su-ngai Kolok district in the Narathiwat province to the bustling city of Bangkok. His visa had been expired for more than five months according to the immigration report, tracing his initial entrance to the beautiful Thai land through Suvarnabhumi International Airport on March 17, with his visa scheduled to expire just a month later.
When interrogated about his prolonged stay in the country, Gurinder Singh spoke candidly about his life as a cultivator in India and how he had saved up a decent amount considering a pal’s suggestion to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Thailand. His Thai expedition encompassed trips to several notable places like Pattaya, Bangkok, and Narathiwat, and he was en route to Bangkok when the immigration officers intercepted him. His ultimate destination was to return to the delightful coastal city of Pattaya.
Mr. Singh expressed high commendations for his adventurous journey across Thailand, reminiscing his travels as profoundly fulfilling. He emphasized the country’s captivating sightseeing spots, cost-effective lifestyle, and intrinsic security. Singh was hesitant to return to his native country as he had ample remaining finances he had planned to splurge on his Thai journey, specifically in Pattaya.
However, Singh’s request for visa extension didn’t receive favorable response from the immigration officials, who notified him about his impending repatriation to India after mandatory legal ramifications. Singh now confronts charges under Section 81 of the Immigration Act for violating his permit duration, which potentially imposes a penalty of up to two years imprisonment and a staggering fine that can reach 20,000 baht.
The Phuket Immigration Checkpoint’s social media page unveiled an incident last month where an international tourist was apprehended at the Phuket International Airport on charges of overstaying. The arrest took place on August 30, staking the individual’s chances of getting blacklisted under the infamous ‘Good Guys In, Bad Guys Out’ policy. Overstaying has been a significant issue in the welcoming Thai society, often referred to as the Land of Smiles. For more thrilling stories about overstaying in Thailand, follow the link provided.
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