Phuket Governor Orders Probe Into Chabad Center Operations Amid Cemetery Dispute

The governor of Thailand's Phuket province has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the operations of the Chabad Lubavitch center in Patong. Authorities have been given seven days to examine land documents, building permits, and business licenses associated with the center. This inquiry follows the last-minute cancellation of a Rosh Hashanah dinner planned for 2,000 Israeli tourists at the center, which was disrupted by a pro-Palestinian demonstration.

The investigation will also scrutinize the shareholding records of companies linked to the Patong center to determine any connection to a project for a Jewish cemetery in another province. Thai Deputy Interior Minister Polpri Swangchao recently addressed the cemetery project, stating that the company behind it was established by three Israeli citizens who also hold Thai nationality and are registered as the landowners. Phuket officials are now investigating potential business or corporate ties between this company and the Chabad center.

Phuket's deputy governor and provincial spokesperson, Roamedon Hayayawa, confirmed the governor's directive for a thorough review of ownership documents, land permits, construction approvals, and commercial operating licenses. Officials emphasized that this is a procedural check, not an accusation of wrongdoing, and is intended to ensure compliance with Thai law, irrespective of nationality, religion, or community.

Rabbi Nechemia Wilhelm, a Chabad emissary in Thailand, stated that Chabad centers have operated legally for 30 years, respecting Thai laws and authorities. He expressed confidence that the investigation would confirm everything is in order. The article also details a separate but related issue where a Jewish cemetery in Bangkok, acquired by the Jewish community and Chabad five years ago, faced difficulties with local authorities revoking its burial permit. This led to an urgent operation, with assistance from the Israeli organization ZAKA, to relocate four graves to a newly purchased burial plot.