PHUKET, Thailand
Tourist Police in Phuket have arrested a 33-year-old Russian woman, identified as Viktoria, for impersonating a doctor and illegally providing medical injection services to tourists. The arrest took place during an undercover operation following multiple complaints about unauthorized medical treatments being offered to foreign visitors.
Undercover Sting Leads to Arrest
Authorities received reports from concerned tourists about a foreign woman who claimed to be a licensed medical doctor, offering injection-based treatments for various ailments, including hangover relief. She promoted her services via social media platforms and arranged appointments using WhatsApp, under the alias “Marina.”
Tourist Police organized a sting operation by posing as clients and arranging a meeting with Viktoria at a rental room in central Phuket. Upon arrival, Viktoria discussed the treatment fee of 6,000 baht (approximately USD $185) per session.
After receiving payment from the undercover officer, she began preparing a syringe and injection equipment, at which point police revealed their identities and arrested her on the spot.
No Medical Qualifications, No Permits
During questioning, Viktoria confessed that she was not a licensed doctor and lacked any medical qualifications or official authorization to practice medicine in Thailand. She admitted that her friend “Marina” had sent her to perform the treatment and that she had already provided similar services to two or three clients.
Police seized 47 pieces of evidence, including medical tools, pharmaceutical items, and promotional materials.
Multiple Charges Filed
Viktoria faces several serious charges, including:
- Practicing medicine without a license
- Selling modern pharmaceuticals without authorization
- Manufacturing, selling, or importing modern drugs without permission
- Working as a foreigner without legal authorization
The case has been forwarded to Phuket Provincial Police investigators for further legal proceedings. Authorities stressed that unauthorized medical practices pose significant risks to public health and safety, especially in tourism hotspots.
Police Warning to the Public
The Tourist Police are urging both residents and visitors to verify medical credentials before undergoing any treatment and to report suspicious services being advertised by unlicensed individuals. Medical services in Thailand are regulated, and treatments should only be performed by licensed professionals operating in certified clinics or hospitals.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about illegal foreign workers and unauthorized medical practices targeting vulnerable tourists.
