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Pattaya Tightens Grip on Homeless and Begging Children Amidst Social Media Outcry
Pattaya City has intensified its crackdown on homeless individuals and flower-selling children following social media complaints about their impact on tourism. On August 4th, a multi-agency team led by the Deputy Mayor began clearing homeless people from public areas and monitoring the situation, particularly around Walking Street.
Pattaya City has launched an integrated operation to regulate homeless people and vagrants while closely inspecting children selling flowers and begging from tourists along Walking Street, following complaints on social media about impacts on tourism. On August 4th, 2026, Deputy Mayor of Pattaya Damrongkiat Phinitkan led a multi-agency team, including officers from the police and social welfare departments, to remove homeless individuals from public areas and enhance monitoring of children engaged in commercial activities and begging. The operation was prompted by growing concerns raised on social media regarding the negative effects of these activities on tourist experiences and the city's image. Authorities aim to prevent illegal encampments in public spaces while offering temporary shelters and access to support services for the homeless. Investigations are also underway concerning children allegedly forced into commercial activities or begging, with a focus on child protection. Pattaya City emphasizes the importance of maintaining the city's cleanliness and safety for the recovery and sustainable development of its tourism industry. These measures are intended to ensure a comfortable stay for tourists while also exploring support mechanisms for vulnerable individuals.
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Pattaya News