Bangkok:The Department of Special Investigation (DSI), alongside various agencies, has initiated "Operation Yuttharat," targeting a transnational nominee network in Bangkok. This operation followed a detailed investigation that exposed the use of fraudulent Thai citizenship, nominee landholding, and the operation of over 60 shell companies, receiving donations averaging 100 million baht annually.
According to Thai News Agency, the operation, led by Pol. Gen. Ruddhaphol Naowarat, Minister of Justice, and Pol. Gen. Polpeerapong Suwannachawi, Deputy Minister of Interior, involved raids on three major locations in Bangkok. These included the Chabaad Foundation on Phra Athit Road, a company in the Bang Rak district, and the Jewish Association of Thailand in Khlong Toei district. Investigators found irregularities such as the registration of multiple companies in small rooms and the presence of as many as 61 companies at a single address, with directors and shareholders frequently rotating.
Further investigation revealed significant donation turnover for the foundation, ownership of prime land in tourist areas like Patong Beach, Phuket, and an 8-story building in Sukhumvit 22 valued in the hundreds of millions of baht. Donation kiosks accepting US dollars were also identified.
Although no severe irregularities were discovered in the building's construction, minor issues were noted regarding road setbacks. While current law does not require religious institutions to notify authorities unless they are temples, if discrepancies between the foundation's stated and actual intentions arise, the Ministry of Interior may revoke permits and escalate the matter to court.