Thai authorities have identified about 2,200 companies suspected of illegally holding land through foreign-majority ownership as part of a crackdown on nominee businesses.
Deputy Interior Minister Polapee Suwunchwee said after a meeting with the Justice and Commerce ministries, that agencies were sharing information on nominees, foreign capital and scam operations.
The Department of Lands will accelerate investigations into the 2,200 companies and pursue compulsory sales of land where violations are confirmed, he said.
He said authorities have also identified more than 11,000 companies considered suspicious because of possible changes in shareholders or bank accounts.
Their estimated asset value has risen from 65 billion baht two weeks ago to 85 billion baht, he said.
Police, the Business Development Department, Land Department and Department of Provincial Administration will investigate the companies to determine whether they are legitimate or nominee businesses as part of their probe.
The investigations are expected to be completed by the end of September, he noted.