Authorities in Bangkok have shut down an illegal elderly care home in Bang Khen after discovering that it had been operating without the proper licence for six months. The Consumer Protection Police Division carried out the inspection on Friday, uncovering several safety and health violations that raised concerns for residents and the surrounding community.
According to Pol Maj Gen Kongkrit Lertsitthikun, commander of the Consumer Protection Police Division, the facility was run by 26-year-old owner Poramet, who holds a master’s degree in business administration. Despite his academic background, he admitted to officers that he lacked experience in elderly care and had not received approval from the Department of Health Service Support, which is required for operating a care facility in Thailand.
The most alarming discovery during the raid was the facility’s improper waste management system. Investigators found that infectious waste had been dumped into public drains, causing blockages and posing health risks to nearby households. Proper waste disposal is a key requirement for any elderly care facility, as these environments need stricter hygiene standards to protect vulnerable residents. The lack of such systems suggested that the operator was unprepared to manage the responsibilities associated with caring for older adults.
Poramet told authorities that the care home charged clients 18,000 baht per person and that he had registered the business as a company in an attempt to appear legitimate. However, without the necessary licensing and oversight, the facility did not meet the standards required by the Health Establishment Act. The case has since been handed over to investigators for further legal action.
Pol Lt Gen Natthasak Chaowanasai, commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), said this incident highlights the dangers posed by unlicensed elderly care facilities. He explained that illegal operators often open such businesses without adequate training, resources, or safety measures. This puts elderly residents at serious risk, especially when caregivers are not properly qualified or when facilities lack essential equipment and sanitation systems.
Thailand is now entering a phase where it is becoming a fully aged society, meaning a significant portion of its population is elderly. With this shift, the demand for senior care services is rising quickly. While many legitimate and qualified providers exist, the growing need has also led to an increase in unauthorised operations trying to profit from families seeking affordable care options.
Pol Lt Gen Natthasak warned that such illegal businesses not only exploit families but also endanger the health and safety of the elderly, who are among the most vulnerable groups in society. He emphasised the importance of thorough inspections, transparent licensing processes, and stronger public awareness to ensure that families can identify credible and legally compliant care facilities.
The shutdown of the Bang Khen care home serves as a reminder of the need for strict enforcement of health regulations. Authorities plan to continue monitoring and taking action against similar operations to protect both elderly residents and the broader community.
