Thai Authorities Raid Jewish Institutions in Bangkok Amidst Business Probe

Thai authorities on Thursday raided three Jewish sites in Bangkok, including the Chabad Lubavitch Foundation, Gan Chabad, and the Jewish Association of Thailand, as part of a broad investigation into what they described as a "network of businesses and assets linked to Israeli citizens." The investigation, led by Thailand's Department of Special Investigation (DSI) under the Ministry of Justice, focuses on suspicions of using Thai citizens as fronts to hold businesses and assets illegally, which is against Thai law requiring local ownership.

Rabbi Nehemia Wilhelm, the Chabad emissary in Bangkok, stated that authorities informed him they intended to inspect foreign institutions in the country and that his organization fully cooperated. "We have nothing to hide. We operate strictly according to Thai law, for the benefit of travelers and Jews, and engage in charity and kindness for everyone. Our doors are always open," he said, adding that they provided all requested documents and that the authorities were conducting a general inspection. He emphasized that Chabad's activities continue as usual, with around 500 people expected for Shabbat services.

The raids involved over ten investigative and enforcement agencies, including police, tax authorities, immigration, the anti-money laundering office, and the land department. Investigators are examining the identities of ultimate beneficiaries and controllers, sources of funds, real estate transactions, company activities, and the status of Thai citizenship granted to some individuals involved. During the inspection at Gan Chabad, authorities found documents related to the registration of associations and companies, donations, memberships, land acquisitions, construction, tax payments, restaurants, hotels, and Chabad House operations. The DSI noted that over 61 companies are registered at the same address, with some listing the same individuals as directors or shareholders.

Rabbi Wilhelm rejected any connection between Chabad and these companies, explaining that the site where documents were found is an accountant's office serving numerous businesses. The investigation also extended to the construction site of "Beit Elisheva," Bangkok's oldest synagogue and a center for the local Jewish community, managed by the Jewish Association of Thailand and Chabad. The authorities did not allege that the religious institutions themselves committed financial, property, or business-related offenses, nor were any Israelis arrested during the operation. This action follows a previous investigation in Chonburi province concerning "Cozy Beach View" company, where an Israeli director and a Thai shareholder were summoned or charged with alleged violations of the Foreign Business Act.

Thai authorities stressed that the country is open to foreign investment and operations conducted legally but will not permit the circumvention of foreign ownership restrictions through local companies and Thai nominees. Rabbi Wilhelm reiterated their commitment to operating within the law and cooperating with any investigation, expressing confidence that all would be found in order.