Thai PM Criticizes Foreigners Over Illegal Business, Land Grabs

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has strongly criticized foreigners engaging in illegal activities and land ownership in the country, stating that their actions have gone too far in violating Thai law and hospitality. The prime minister's remarks came after four bodies were removed from a Jewish cemetery near Bangkok earlier this week. The cemetery, legally purchased by the Jewish community, was ordered cleared by Thai authorities who suspect it continued to operate after its permit expired years ago.

"This is beyond our acceptable limits," Charnvirakul stated on Thursday. "We have already been generous by allowing them to come here. If they come, they should earn a living with dignity. But when they die, they should return and be buried in their homeland. They must not come here and exploit us."

Charnvirakul clarified that Thailand has no issue with foreigners using existing facilities like churches, temples, crematoriums, or existing cemeteries. However, he emphasized, "They cannot come here, take our land, and then bury their dead here. This is unacceptable."

The prime minister's comments follow a recent surge in protests against the large presence of Israelis in Thailand, particularly in the southern islands, with demonstrators demanding respect for local laws and culture. Concurrently, Thai authorities have launched a crackdown on shell companies using Thai citizens as figureheads and have shortened tourist visa durations from 60 to 30 days.

Authorities are also investigating the Chabad House in Phuket, specifically a project to establish a Jewish cemetery. Initial findings indicate the company behind the project is owned by three Israelis, who also hold Thai citizenship and own the designated land. This investigation is reportedly proceeding under direct instructions from the Deputy Minister of Interior.