KOH SAMUI, THAILAND – An Israeli national has been arrested for threatening a business owner. The case sparked a multi-agency probe and a warning that Thai law applies to everyone.
The man allegedly threatened a shop owner on August 5, trying to force him to close his business. Police say he caused fear and panic through threats. After a failed reconciliation session, cops filed the complaint and lodged criminal case 364/2569.
Israeli accused of threats after failed reconciliation
The suspect is accused of threatening the business owner with physical violence on August 5 and attempting to force the shop shut. Police charged him with causing fear and alarm.
After a reconciliation meeting flopped, police registered the complaint and arrested the Israeli for questioning.
Interagency probe launched on afternoon of incident
District chief Amorn Chumchay led the investigation on August 5. The operation began around 2.10pm and involved officers from Koh Samui police station.
Immigration officials, district administration, forest officers and the livestock development office also joined the probe. The Surat Thani immigration unit on Koh Samui helped verify the man’s status.
Deputy minister: no one above Thai law
Thais must be protected from intimidation and harassment. Nobody stands above Thai law, regardless of their background.
said Deputy Interior Minister Worasit Liengprasit.
Worasit denied the action had any ethnic or racial basis. He said behaviour and compliance with the law matter, not the suspect’s nationality.
Foreigners still welcome on Koh Samui
Worasit said foreign tourists and residents remain welcome on the island. But they must follow Thai laws during their stay.
Bad behaviour must not damage the island’s reputation as a destination. Samui should remain a place to live and a hospitable destination for visitors.
said Worasit.
Police chief orders crackdown on public order offences
Police commander Suwat Suksi ordered all stations in Surat Thani province to crack down hard on cases that threaten public order. Officers must protect public safety and apply the law consistently.
The order came directly from the Samui case. After the complaint, police pushed the legal process against the Israeli national.
Minister unveils measures to tackle water shortage
Worasit visited Koh Samui on Saturday and chaired a meeting at the district office. Three days after the incident, he put the investigation on the agenda and got briefed on other island problems.
Local authorities raised concerns needing support from the ministry and central government. Worasit announced measures against the shortage of piped water on Koh Samui.