Thai Authorities Investigate Chabad Activities in Phuket Amid Land Ownership Probe

Thai authorities have officially ordered an investigation into the activities of the Chabad center in Patong, Phuket, as part of a broader review of land ownership and business operations involving foreigners. The probe, confirmed by the Thai government, will examine the identities of landowners, acquisition methods, usage permits, and commercial licenses related to foreign-linked businesses.

The investigation was reportedly expanded following an inquiry into a company involved in establishing a Jewish cemetery in Thailand. This company has three Israeli founders or shareholders, who also hold Thai citizenship and own the land for the cemetery project. Authorities are now scrutinizing potential links between these individuals and Chabad's operations in Phuket.

While Thai citizenship theoretically allows land ownership, officials are scrutinizing the source of funds, corporate structures, and property acquisition methods. This is not the first inspection of the Chabad center; a previous one on July 26 by district representatives, police, security, and local authorities checked licenses, fundraising, religious use, and ownership structure. That inspection revealed the building was licensed for use as a restaurant and club, alongside areas for prayer and religious activities.

Authorities are also investigating whether local shareholders are being used as nominees for foreign entities, which is illegal under Thai law. This intensified scrutiny occurs amid growing criticism in Thailand regarding foreign activities and companies suspected of using Thai shareholders as fronts for foreign ownership. Out of over 32,000 companies registered in Phuket with foreign shareholders, authorities flagged 196 for further legal proceedings after reviewing 6,682 identified as high-risk.

The investigation follows a recent objection by a local Phuket group to Chabad's Rosh Hashanah events, citing security concerns related to the Middle East conflict. Thai officials emphasize that no wrongdoing has been determined yet, stating the investigation aims to ensure compliance with Thai law and is not targeting any specific religion or nationality. Findings are expected within seven days. A similar investigation in Koh Samui concerning the Jewish community and the cemetery project was reportedly closed due to insufficient evidence.

Meanwhile, the Israeli Ambassador to Thailand stated before Rosh Hashanah that she is working to open Chabad houses to locals, not just Israelis and Jews, highlighting their role as community support centers. This statement comes amid increasing public discussion about Chabad's activities and their perceived scale and implications.