Nominee crackdown after boat tragedy

PHUKET, July 17 (TNA) - Thai officials lay out plans to scrutinize Thai nominees used to operate tour companies in the wake of tragic Phoenix boat accident in Phuket that killed 47 Chinese tourists. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports called a meeting with related agencies and tour operators’ associations for brainstorming on preventive measures against illegal businesses. Police investigators have found the Phoenix’s owner, TC Blue Dream, linked with another company convicted of money laundering and frauds. They have frozen assets of the company after searches at several locations. Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports said the meeting also discussed safety measures for tourism industry with proposed stricter regulations. (TNA)