On 12 June 2025, a 33-year-old Russian woman was arrested in central Phuket after offering unlicensed medical injections to tourists during a sting operation conducted by Tourist Police.
Tourist Police in Phuket apprehended the woman, identified as Viktoria, following multiple reports that she was posing as a medical professional and administering treatments without a license. Operating under the alias “Marina,” she advertised health and recovery services online, targeting foreign clients seeking remedies for hangovers and general wellness.
An undercover officer contacted her through WhatsApp, arranging a meeting at a rented room in central Phuket. Viktoria arrived with medical equipment and quoted a fee of 6,000 baht (approximately US$185) per session. After payment was made, she began preparing to administer an injection, at which point officers identified themselves and made the arrest.
During questioning, Viktoria admitted she had no medical qualifications or permits to practice or sell pharmaceuticals in Thailand. She claimed she was acting on behalf of a friend named “Marina” and had previously performed similar treatments on two or three clients. Authorities confiscated 47 items of evidence, including syringes and other medical supplies.
Charges filed against her include practicing medicine without a license, distributing modern pharmaceuticals without authorisation, and working illegally as a foreigner. The case is now with investigators for further legal proceedings.
