Phuket Governor Reveals Preliminary Findings in Chabad House Patong Investigation

Phuket Governor Chotinrin Kerdsom has disclosed preliminary findings from an ongoing investigation into Chabad House Patong, saying authorities have identified links to two related companies with combined assets of approximately 261.58 million baht.

According to the governor, both companies belong to the same business network and maintain offices in Cherng Talay, Thalang. Investigators have also identified four additional branches operating elsewhere in Phuket, bringing the total number of locations connected to the two companies to six.

Provincial authorities are now examining the full range of activities associated with the businesses. The review includes real estate operations, tour-related businesses and other commercial activities, as well as company registrations, operating licences and compliance with relevant regulations.

The investigation is also looking into the companies' ownership structures. Governor Chotinrin said preliminary information shows that the two entities have three principal directors: two Thai nationals and one Israeli national.

Authorities will examine the shareholding arrangements and the companies' business activities to determine whether they comply with Thai law.

“We must examine every aspect carefully to determine whether any legal violations have occurred,” the governor said, adding that the investigation is being conducted on the basis of the law and the facts of each case.

The provincial administration said the probe into Chabad House Patong covers a number of areas, including the use of the building and land, business licensing, shareholding structures and the activities carried out at the premises.

Public safety and order are among the issues being considered, along with whether the activities conducted at the site are appropriate under local regulations.

The latest findings are preliminary, and the investigation remains ongoing. The provincial authorities previously said, following an on-site inspection on September 15, that they would collect and verify all relevant information before reaching any conclusions.