Police raided a tour company over a bossy Chinese guide who allegedly forced holidaymakers to buy souvenirs in Thailand.

Tourism officers and police stormed the office of Feng Run Travel Trading Co Ltd. in Bangkok on Tuesday as footage emerged of the domineering guide ordering bus passengers to buy gifts from a shop he recommended.

Video shows the aggressive Chinese attendant, later identified as Zhang Bo, 38, threatening tourists over a microphone that they 'will definitely not be allowed on the bus' if they don't buy anything from a local jewellery store.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand said Feng Run Travel, which arranged the six-day trip for employees of Siam Gems Company, had a valid license to operate.

The incident reportedly happened on October 12, as the group of 26 were returning to Bangkok from Chonburi in eastern Thailand.

Thai tour guide Aye Kaemue said: 'The argument was brief, and the tourists returned safely after the trip. At 5:41 pm on October 13, they flew out of Don Mueang International Airport and were en route to Xi'an, China.'

Authorities said the tour company was suspected of violating the law by allegedly offering 'zero-dollar tours', which are sold at extremely low prices to attract travellers, with operators later recouping losses by directing tourists to affiliated shops in exchange for commission or kickbacks.

The offence carries a possible prison sentence of up to two years, a fine of up to 500,000 baht (11,447 GBP), or both.

Officials said arrogant guide Zhang Bo will be issued a warning but was not found to have done anything illegal.

Zero-dollar tours have been plaguing Thailand's tourism industry for years, though Chinese tourists have increasingly favoured premium packages or independent travel since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Licensed Thai guides have raised concerns, noting that foreign nationals are prohibited from working as tour guides in Thailand. Many are now calling for an investigation.

Illegal guides could face up to one year in prison, a fine of 100,000 baht (2,289 GBP), or both.

Additionally, tour companies may be charged with unfairly exploiting tourists, which carries fines of up to 50,000 baht (1,144 GBP) and possible licence suspension for up to six months.

(1 GBP = 43.68 THB)