Once again, do NOT come to Thailand underfunded and expect to make money illegally. You will not enjoy Thai prison.
And now the news!
KOH PHAGNAN — A 40-year-old British woman has been arrested on Koh Phangan for allegedly teaching tantra yoga without a valid work permit, Thai authorities said Wednesday.
Tourist police identified the suspect only as Maria, who was detained at Ethos restaurant in Koh Phangan district on charges of working outside the scope of her authorized employment.
According to police, Maria held a work permit listing her as a customer relations manager for Genesis Commercial Co., Ltd., a property management firm. However, she was allegedly teaching tantra yoga classes at the restaurant, an activity not covered under her permit.
Authorities launched an investigation after receiving a Facebook complaint showing promotional posts under the name “Maria Sky” in the “Koh Phangan Conscious Community (For Real Edition)” group. The posts advertised tantra yoga sessions held every Tuesday from 4:30 to 6 p.m. for 400 baht per person.
Police said they found Maria leading a class with foreign participants, demonstrating postures and guiding meditation. Officers seized evidence including class tickets, flyers for “tantra massage for couples,” a notebook detailing lessons on sacred sexuality, and promotional posters featuring her image.
Maria reportedly admitted to teaching the classes and sharing proceeds with Ethos restaurant. Authorities said the activity violated Thailand’s Emergency Decree on the Management of Foreign Workers’ Employment.
Investigators also reviewed promotional materials describing advanced “tantra yoga–sacred sexuality” courses that required male-female pairs and contained explicit content. Officials said the arrest was part of efforts to curb activities that could harm Thailand’s tourism image and social norms.
Maria was taken to Koh Phangan Police Station for legal proceedings.
Source: Khaosod English