Phuket: "Pholpeer" has tasked the Deputy Governor of Phuket with closely monitoring the Jewish New Year celebration hosted by Chabad Patong, amid concerns it could evolve into a "zero-dollar tour." With 700 Israeli tourists flying directly to Phuket, the event has attracted scrutiny from local authorities, who are investigating potential financial irregularities associated with the celebration.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Interior Minister Phonphir Suwannachavi disclosed that the Phuket Provincial Administration has acknowledged the event's private ownership, which limits enforcement of the National Security Act due to a lack of violence. However, Deputy Governor Ramdon Haji Awae has been instructed to oversee the situation, ensuring peace and order while monitoring for any disturbances or community reactions to the Israeli attendees.
The event organizers have requested assistance from Patong Police Station to maintain order, with the decision resting on the station's superintendent. The celebration is planned in two parts, with additional flights expected to bring more attendees. Although organizers have vowed to restrict attendance to 700 pre-registered individuals, suspicions of an organized "zero-cost tour" persist, prompting further investigation by the deputy governor.
Concerns linger regarding the legality of the event, as tickets are reportedly being sold under the guise of a religious ceremony. Pholpeer has called for administrative officials to investigate any potential business activities associated with the celebration. Legal action will ensue if any irregularities are discovered.
The investigation extends beyond Phuket, with the Minister of Justice and Pholpeer examining the origins of the organizing company and its network, including locations in Chonburi, Pai, Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, and Sukhumvit, where suspicions of money laundering are being probed.
Pholpeer reassured the public that Thai sovereignty would be upheld, promising transparency and accountability in the investigation. He expressed concerns about the private nature of the Shabad and intends to visit personally to understand why access is restricted to non-nationals, emphasizing the importance of cultural openness in Thailand.